Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa Reveals Art-Deco Design

Ahead of its opening later this year, the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa in Luxembourg-Gare has revealed the architectural, historical and cultural inspiration behind the building’s revival.

The hotel’s interior has been designed by interior design studio, Iria Degen Interiors, and is expected to offer “timeless elegance through a distinctive Art Deco style”, throughout the Greatroom lobby, the M Club executive lounge, all 153 rooms and suites and the Brasserie Alfa restaurant. The hotel will also feature a fully equipped fitness centre and five meeting rooms on the first floor.

According to Rex Nijhof, General Manager of Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa: “This iconic building, with its rich history and beautiful Art Deco design, perfectly embodies Marriott Hotels’ commitment to delivering refined and innovative design, along with elevated guest experiences. We look forward to welcoming guests to discover the unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort at the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa.” 

The 1930s building is a protected landmark since 1991. Located opposite the  capital’s main train station, the hotel played a key role in the area’s rapid development at the end of the 19th century. In 1928, Alfred Lefèvre initiated the construction of the Hôtel Alfa, designed by architect Léon Bouvart. The hotel officially opened its doors in January 1932, followed shortly by the opening of the Brasserie Alfa. It quickly became a cornerstone of Luxembourg’s social and cultural life, known for its bold interiors, jazz concerts and performances that drew both local and international elites.

During the Battle of the Bulge, the hotel hosted US Generals George S. Patton and Omar Bradley, and future US President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, for a Christmas dinner on 25 December 1944. In the post-war years, the Hôtel Alfa remained a key venue for cultural and political events, including birthday celebrations for Grand Duchess Charlotte, balls, concerts and fashion shows featuring brands like Nina Ricci.

Iria Degen, Interior Designer, said: “We feel incredibly privileged to have been entrusted with rejuvenating such a magical place. These walls - and our project - tell a genuine story with a fresh approach. Art Deco is my favourite style period - so forward-thinking and timeless - and our interior intervention is entirely rooted in what was already there. It was about recognising and honouring the existing quality we discovered. Through our designed spaces, we’re proud to contribute to the well-being of hotel guests and are thrilled to return this iconic destination to the people of Luxembourg”.

The hotel’s design is described as a harmonious blend of historical respect and contemporary elegance. The overall aesthetic and colour palette are reported to be inspired by original architectural features, such as the imposing decorative façade, vintage brasserie lighting, classified local paintings and colourful stained-glass windows in the stairwell. Original light fixtures have been restored and reinstalled and furnishings, such as rosewood buffets and the natural marble bar counter, have been preserved. Art Deco-inspired typography is featured throughout the signage, while metallic accents, including decorative handles and shelf objects, reflect the era’s iconic details. 

All historic paintings, including four restored paintings by Julien Lefèvre, have been repositioned and complemented by bespoke creations by local artists Martine Feipel and Jean Bechameil.

For a behind-the-scenes interview with Rex Nijhof, read this January 2025 article on Chronicle.lu: https://chronicle.lu/category/at-home/53048-luxembourg-marriott-hotel-alfa-behind-the-scenes-interview.