17th century Amsterdam canal house thoroughly renovated with colour and creative details
Ewout Huibers

17th century Amsterdam canal house thoroughly renovated with colour and creative details

13 Jan 2022  •  News  •  By Allie Shiell

Originally constructed in 1675, this once neglected canal house has been renovated by Amsterdam based studio i29 into a bright home that mixes the original building fabric with contemporary elements. Working with a team of specialists, the transformation took more than two years to complete. 

Ewout Huibers

Throughout the renovation, different spaces are defined and highlighted with areas of colour that continue from one space to the next. Original details are variously exposed or hidden within colourful rooms while new interventions and finishes added by the architects are clearly distinguished.

Ewout Huibers

On the ground floor, the kitchen is finished with white concrete alongside light walls and a custom-designed oak kitchen and dining table. The kitchen is visually tied to a study room above through a common grey stained oak wall. This same grey colour continues into the living room but turns into a fabric wall covering for acoustic control.  

Ewout Huibers

Interesting insertions and hidden elements are present throughout. A green glass volume conceals a hidden guest room with ensuite bathroom and garden access while behind a rotating book wall in the living room another hidden area finished in blue reveals itself. 

Ewout Huibers

Luxuriously renovated sleeping quarters are located on the upper floor. The main bedroom features its original construction and is separated from the bathroom by a mirrored volume that contains both the stairwell and a shower area. The use of two-way mirrors in the shower area affords direct views of the canal. 

Ewout Huibers

Tailor-made for the the17th century fabric, all interventions fit with the original building fabric while addressing the modern lifestyles of the next generation.