Heinzel De Vries, the Amsterdam-based interior architecture studio, was commissioned to design the interiors of the newly opened Efteling Grand Hotel - a luxurious hospitality destination nestled within one of Europe’s most beloved theme parks. The project encompasses all guest rooms, hospitality spaces, wellness areas, and retail zones, translating Efteling’s signature magic into a surreal, whimsical, and immersive hotel experience.

Design Concept
Inspired by Efteling’s rich storytelling tradition and the cinematic elegance of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel, Heinzel De Vries crafted a layered and narrative-driven interior. Collaborating closely with Efteling’s design team led by Sander de Bruijn, the studio developed a timeless concept that balances theatricality with comfort.

Visual language: rganic shapes, bold color palettes, and authentic materials like marble, terrazzo, wood, and brass
Furniture: a blend of design classics (e.g., Verner Panton’s Cloverleaf sofa, Arne Jacobsen’s Mayor sofa) and bespoke pieces
Family-friendly touches: Child-height sinks, smart upholstery, and playful accents
Each space is a visual treasure hunt, subtly referencing iconic Efteling attractions and celebrating seven decades of park history.

Guest rooms and suites
The hotel features 140 rooms and suites, each designed around one of four color palettes inspired by views of the surrounding theme park.

Wellness and retail
The design extends to the pool, spa, and retail areas, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic that blends luxury with storytelling.

Hospitality spaces
The hotel’s restaurants and bars are theatrical environments that elevate the dining experience.
Brasserie 7: Deep reds and soft pinks create intimacy within a grand setting.
Restaurant-Bar Mystique: Overlooks Aquanura with midnight blues and aged brass accents.
Materials: Velvet, smoked wood, and marble add texture and character over time.

Design philosophy
“Designing the Efteling Grand Hotel was an exceptional multi-year journey in which we translated Efteling's immersive storytelling into a tangible and layered interior experience,” say founders Tinka Heinzel and Barbara de Vries. The project exemplifies Heinzel De Vries’ commitment to narrative-rich, emotionally resonant design.

About Efteling
Efteling is one of Europe’s most iconic theme parks, located in Kaatsheuvel, the Netherlands. Since its opening in 1952, it has grown into an international destination, welcoming over five million visitors annually. The park offers a distinctive blend of fairy tales, attractions, nature, and entertainment, and is renowned for its rich tradition of storytelling. Beyond the amusement park, Efteling features a range of accommodation
options, including hotels and holiday resorts. With a continued focus on hospitality, imagination, and sustainability, Efteling remains a leading brand in the global leisure and hospitality sector.

Interior Design: Heinzel De Vries