Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa: Behind the Scenes Interview

The Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa is set to open in 2025 in Luxembourg-Gare, almost directly opposite the city's main train station; Chronicle.lu got the opportunity to talk with Rex Nijhof, the hotel's General Manager.

The hotel had previously (until 2017) been operated by the Accor Group, under the Mercure brand; this time it will operate under the Marriott brand after extensive refurbishment.

Previous articles:
- 6 May 2019: https://chronicle.lu/category/at-home/29106-marriott-hotels-to-re-open-on-former-alfa-hotel-site-at-luxembourg-gare
- 22 October 2024: https://chronicle.lu/category/jobs-appointments/51922-luxembourgs-new-marriott-hotel-alfa-appoints-rex-nijhof-as-general-manager

Chronicle.lu: With the original (2019) announcement of the hotel to open in 2021, we understand now that it will open next year; have the delays been mainly down to the pandemic or other issues, or a combination of factors?

Rex Nijhof: The opening of the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa has been delayed due to ongoing work to achieve the highest product quality. The opening of the hotel is now estimated for Spring 2025. Our owners continue to work diligently with the construction company to deliver the project in line with the timeless designs and the high-quality expectations of the Marriott brand.

Chronicle.lu: In overseeing the renovation of the original iconic building (opposite the main train station) which dates from the 1930s, what features in particular have been retained?

Rex Nijhof: This iconic landmark dating back to the 1930s formed the backdrop to historical moments in Luxembourg's history. Careful attention has been paid to respect its status as a protected building whilst laying the foundations for generations of future guests to enjoy state-of-the-art contemporary hospitality. In particular, works of art by the renowned Luxembourg artist Julien Lefèvre have been preserved and restored and will find their place at the Brasserie Alfa and the meeting rooms on the first floor. The hotel's interior designer Iria Degen has taken inspiration from those paintings to create the colour schemes throughout the hotel and has implemented contemporary touches whilst conserving the Art Deco undertones reminiscent of the hotel's heyday.

Chronicle.lu: The hotel will offer 150+ guest rooms and suites; apart from this what business function rooms / facilities will the hotel offer?

Rex Nijhof: The hotel features a dedicated meeting room on the first floor with five meeting rooms providing the perfect hub for your event from twelve to 120 participants as well as a state-of-the art gym facility in the basement of the hotel.

Chronicle.lu: What can you tell us about the Brasserie Alfa restaurant which we understand will offer a menu blending classic French dishes with Luxembourgish influences? Has the menu been chosen yet? And what will be the opening hours?

Rex Nijhof: Set to become a new dining and social destination in the city, the revival of the famous Brasserie Alfa with the original paintings of the Luxembourg artist Julien Lefèvre will be the perfect gathering place that allows locals to reconnect with their own past. Guests can enjoy an authentic French brasserie experience, with a menu that blends classic French dishes and subtle Luxembourgish influences. Fresh seafood and regional specialties are served in a cozy, welcoming setting that captures the essence of traditional French dining. The experience is further enhanced by a touch of theatrical table-side service, bringing a hint of magic to every meal. At the bar, guests can savour classic cocktails expertly crafted to complement the lively ambiance of the brasserie. The bar and the brasserie Alfa will be open to the public, as well as the meeting rooms.

Chronicle.lu: How many staff will be employed at the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa?

Rex Nijhof: Around 80 people.

Chronicle.lu: When can the public expect the hotel to open its doors?

Rex Nijhof: The hotel is scheduled to open this spring.