The Rebirth of a Legend: Marriott Hotel Alfa, Where Heritage Meets Hospitality

In the very heart of Luxembourg City, where the rhythm of trains pulses through the central station and the streets echo with layers of history, a grand icon has returned to life. The Marriott Hotel Alfa is more than just a hotel reopening—it’s the soulful resurrection of a storied landmark, infused with the timeless elegance of Art Deco and the world-class service of the Marriott brand.

At the helm of this exciting new chapter is Rex Nijhof, a seasoned hospitality leader who knows what it means to honor the past while creating the future. After more than three decades with Marriott International—including roles in 17 hotels across the globe—Nijhof brings not only vast experience but a heartfelt sense of purpose to Luxembourg.

“This is the rebirth of an iconic building, ” he explains. “We’re not just opening a hotel; we’re rekindling a legacy.”

A Jewel Reimagined
Originally opened in 1932, the Hôtel Alfa quickly became a cultural institution in Luxembourg. It was the stage for jazz concerts and elegant galas, the host of American generals during World War II—including Eisenhower and Patton—and a gathering place for fashion shows, royal birthdays, and political soirées. Now reborn as the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa, the building has reclaimed its place as a national monument and beacon of elegance.

The transformation is no ordinary renovation. Designed by acclaimed Swiss interior architect Iria Degen, the hotel’s new identity is a sophisticated dialogue between past and present. Original architectural gems—the ornate façade, stained-glass windows, and paintings by renowned Luxembourg artist Julien Lefèvre—have been meticulously preserved or reintegrated. The Art Deco inspiration flows throughout, from soft, rounded mirrors and rich materials to the gleaming marble bar and zigzag motifs that echo the historic façade.

Every corner tells a story. From the revived Brasserie Alfa’s pewter-framed mirrors and green velvet banquettes, to a hidden mural by artist Gast Michels visible from the upper floors, the hotel invites guests to look closer—and discover its soul.

A Luxembourg Experience, the Marriott Way
While each Marriott property carries the brand’s commitment to excellence, the Hotel Alfa stands apart through its Luxembourgish spirit. The experience here is not just about five-star comfort—it’s about connection. Connection to the city, to its heritage, and to the local community.

Guests—whether business travelers, weekend explorers, or locals dropping in for dinner—are welcomed into an atmosphere that blends international standards with local flair. “We want to offer a true Luxembourg experience, ” Nijhof shares, “with authentic touches and stories woven into the design, service, and cuisine.”

Culinary Heritage with a Modern Twist
The heart of the hotel’s social life is undoubtedly Brasserie Alfa, a culinary destination in its own right. Here, Executive Chef Thibault Bera reinterprets the great classics of Luxembourgish and French cuisine, using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The charcuterie comes from Meyer, vegetables from the Moselle Valley, and meats from nearby regions.

The interior, inspired by Julien Lefèvre’s painting of the four regions of Luxembourg, sets the tone for a vibrant and elegant experience. Guests can savor house specialties—like the homemade Alfa sausage with creamy mashed potatoes—in a dining room bathed in Art Deco ambiance. Or step out onto the stylish terrace, with a direct view of the bustling station, for breakfast, lunch, or an evening aperitif under the open sky.

“More than just a restaurant, Brasserie Alfa is a celebration of conviviality, authenticity, and genuinely good food.”

The bar, too, is a destination in itself, serving creative cocktails and fine local wines, making it a favorite for both hotel guests and city dwellers.

Where Hospitality Begins
For Rex Nijhof, hospitality isn’t defined by polished lobbies or elegant suites—it begins at the entrance, at the reception desk, where each guest is welcomed with warmth and sincerity.

“Anywhere I meet people is my favorite place, ” he says with a smile. “That’s where Wonderful Hospitality. Always. begins.”

When asked to describe the hotel in one word, his answer is immediate: Pride. “Pride in what we’ve achieved, pride in the team, pride in what’s to come. And if I could add two more? Anticipation and excitement.”

A Moment in Time
If the Marriott Hotel Alfa were a song, it would be Whitney Houston’s One Moment in Time. For the team behind the hotel’s revival, this is their moment—their chance to make history shine once more, while crafting unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through the doors.

With elegance, legacy, and a spirit of renewal, the Marriott Hotel Alfa is writing the next chapter of its extraordinary story. And Luxembourg is all the richer for it.