T+L Reports: The Suite Life

A temple of modern design ensconced in a row of 18th-century working-class homes, Lute Suites (54–58 Amsteldijk Zuid; 31-20/472-2462; www.lutesuites.com; doubles from $370) is the brainchild of renowned Dutch designer Marcel Wanders and local chef Peter Lute. The seven duplex suites, 20 minutes outside Amsterdam, bear little resemblance to a traditional hotel's—each has its own front door, and there's no lobby. Wanders has also given the rooms individually distinct personalities. Suite One is cheerfully modern, with bright lamps and a 10-foot-high window overlooking the Amstel River. In stark contrast, Seven is a contemporary take on Gothic style, featuring an inlaid metal floor and a spiral teak staircase. Each morning a wooden basket of fresh breads and cheeses is placed outside your door. —AMY WESTERVELT