How Amsterdam RAI and Younique Concepts joined forces to bring Selva, a signature restaurant, and the cocktail bar Sonora to life, located on the 24th floor of this iconic hotel.
A space where contemporary art, design, and gastronomy intertwine to offer a unique and immersive experience.
Spanning over 700 square meters, the venue accommodates 137 diners and an additional 45 guests in the cocktail area, transporting visitors to a universe inspired by the lush Amazon rainforest.
The interior design project, signed by El Equipo Creativo, draws inspiration from the Amazon River's colours, textures, and organic forms, creating a vibrant, opulent atmosphere rich in symbolism.
At Martínez Otero Contract, we carried out a turnkey project that included civil works and the manufacturing and installation of custom carpentry and furniture. Our work covered wall panelling, doors, bars, bottle racks, banquettes, armchairs, sofas, tables, and chairs, among other bespoke elements.
Some of the most striking features of the space are the bar areas and banquettes, true highlights of the interior design:
- The bars have two main elements: a base fixed to the floor and a suspended bottle rack structure that winds across the ceiling. These pieces are black MDF panels with a lower HPL laminate finish. The ceiling-mounted structure consists of lacquered black iron tubing, flat bars, and rods alternating with stained walnut MDF slats arranged in a rhythmic pattern.
- The banquettes feature internal structures of stained walnut MDF with a matte finish. Upholstered in faux-channel stitching with fire-retardant foam, the seats and backrests are removable and fastened with Velcro, combining functionality and design.
nhow, Minor Hotels' most disruptive hotel brand is known for its iconic spaces, always designed by internationally renowned creative studios such as Foster+Partners, OMA (fundada por Rem Koolhaas), Karim Rashid, Sergei Tchoban, Teresa Sapey and Matteo Thun, among others.
Now, Selva and Sonora join the brand's visual universe with a concept that celebrates creativity and connection to the natural environment right in the heart of Amsterdam.
Awards & Recognition
The unique design and experience of Selva & Sonora have earned several prestigious awards:
- "Best New Rooftop 2024" by Entree Awards celebrates the Netherlands' most innovative and appealing hospitality concepts.
- "Best Restaurant Design 2024" awarded by the Design Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding interior design and space conceptualization in gastronomy.
- "International Interior Design Award 2024" by Hospitality Design Magazine, honoring creativity and originality in global hospitality space design.
These accolades reflect the excellence and innovation that El Equipo Creativo brought to the project, positioning Selva & Sonora as benchmarks in the design of unique gastronomic experiences.
