Part of what made this project so special is the history behind the building and its inhabitants in years gone by. Nijmegen itself is one of the oldest cities in The Netherlands and it holds a colorful history. Specifically, there are many provocative and boundary pushing female figures that called Nijmegen home. Ranging from resistance fighters, philosophers all the way to those that held positions of power in public office. For the majority of its existence this building was dedicated to the diligent education of young women. Apto thought it only apt that this story of female elevation should become a foundational component of the interior design but also the branding and story of the hotel itself. Many of the girls that attended this school faced archaic ideals of the times that saw their emancipation as a hinderance. These girls were looked down upon for wanting to build an independent future for themselves rather than being relegated to household chores and child rearing. Odessey and Apto coordinated this vision in cooperation, christening this new hospitality establishment, The Rebyl. To honor the young women that worked hard to achieve their own self-determination. Just like the students that previously attended and lived in the school, the structure and organization that Apto created for The Rebyl was created with the goal of attracting future-forward hotel guests. Creating a comprehensive and inclusive guest journey from check-in to check-out of the guests stay at The Rebyl.

As part of the all-inclusive experience created at The Rebyl, it was vital that all rooms and space followed the same thematic design elements which were posed as central to The Rebyl’s brand philosophy.

With inclusivity laying at the heart of The Rebyl, all guest bedrooms were composed to radiate a loving and warm embrace for all guests regardless of their background. Warm colours have been selected for their association with femineity, pastel pinks, creams and light blues create a view scape that evokes this warm. These cool and warm toned pastel colours are not only present in the guests’ bedrooms but can also be found running throughout the rest of the building. Due to the dimensional restrictions placed upon the design team in regard to the parameters of the old dormitory rooms, in initial designs the tiered loft bed spaces above the main living space in the guests bedrooms made the space feel very enclosed with such low ceilings by the entrance. Apto solution to this was creating a cut away between the floors by the entrance, increasing the vertical depth of the space and bringing more light into the back of the rooms.

Embracing some of the more rustic elements of the original artisanal craftsmanship that has gone into the construction of the 1922 building. Opening up ceilings and walls to reveal wide supportive wooden beams. These can be seen throughout the upper levels of the building throughout hallways and ceiling some bedrooms.

The gym at The Rebyl, thoughtfully designed, combines functionality with the hotel’s distinctive aesthetic. Bathed in natural light from expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, the space feels open and energizing. Curved hanging ceiling lights ensure a consistently bright and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal environment for all fitness enthusiasts. A dark blue mirror with subtle hints of purple echoes the hotel’s cohesive colour palette, tying the gym seamlessly into the overall design narrative. The polished matte concrete flooring not only reinforces the space’s utilitarian purpose but also adds a sleek, modern touch. Carefully optimized to maximize usability, the gym efficiently accommodates a wide range of exercise equipment, catering to diverse fitness needs without feeling crowded. The result is a dynamic, stylish, and practical fitness space that enhances the guest experience while maintaining The Rebyl’s signature sense of design. In line with the inclusive ethos of The Rebyl and its role as a key landmark in Nijmegen’s geographical and cultural landscape, the gym is open not only to guests but also to nearby residents. This approach strengthens the connection between the hotel and the local community, offering a shared space for wellness and interaction.

The Madame Liberty Restaurant, seamlessly connected to the lobby of The Rebyl, offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where guests can gather and feel at ease. We designed this space to radiate hospitality through its thoughtful design and attention to detail. High ceilings and an abundance of greenery create an open, vibrant atmosphere, while floor-to-ceiling glass windows bathe the front of the restaurant in natural light. Toward the back, the ambiance becomes more intimate with warm lighting and cozy couch seating, perfect for relaxation. At its core, the restaurant features a striking central bar crafted from black polished stone composite, complemented by an open kitchen that showcases the energy of the culinary team. Sustainability is woven into the design, with innovative features like tables made from reconstituted denim, reflecting Apto’s commitment to regenerative practices and reducing waste in construction. The space is unified by elegant herringbone wooden flooring and hanging LED lights adorned with greenery, echoing the elements found in the lobby. Overlooking the iconic Vierdaagseplein, the Madame Liberty restaurant is a harmonious blend of sophistication, sustainability, and comfort.

In reflection Apto Architects is very proud to have been able to play a central role in bringing this space into the world. Breathing new life into a space that if left to it’s devices would have continued to waste away. But in close coordination with other parties, we were able to give this historically important space a second chance at being something meaningful to the people of Nijmegen. A place to come together, a place to highlight the identity and history of Nijmegen and a place for guests to call home.