Nestled in central Amsterdam on the prestigious Herengracht, this canal-side apartment enjoys expansive views over the water while remaining sheltered by the lush trees surrounding the façade. Studio Modijefsky was commissioned to redesign the entrance sequence, guest facilities, kitchen, and pantry, while refining the circulation towards the private quarters of the home. The result is an interior that balances bold material gestures with a calm and timeless spatial experience.
THE ENTRANCE
The arrival experience was carefully reconsidered to create a welcoming and natural transition from the outside to the inside. Upon entering, a custom marble niche integrated into the wall offers a place for everyday essentials, while bespoke oak wardrobes provide generous storage for coats and personal belongings.
Opposite the wardrobes, the guest toilet unfolds as a richly detailed space. Matte brown tiles are combined with glossy zellige surfaces, creating depth and texture within the compact room. A bespoke vanity in Calacatta Viola marble forms the centrepiece, paired with a seamlessly integrated stainless-steel sink. Above, a faceted mirror and chrome wall sconces provide soft illumination, enhancing the intimate atmosphere of the space.
Moving further into the apartment, natural light enters through the balcony windows and leads the path towards the living spaces. A full-height mirror and tiled plinth smoothly introduce the material palette that continues throughout the entire house.
THE KITCHEN
The hallway opens into a spacious open-plan kitchen and living area overlooking the canal. Here, the bold material composition shows the character of the room by combining the reddish-brown floor tiles, Rosso levanto marble, cream Taj Mahal stone, stainless steel and warm wooden elements.
In the centre of the space stands the sculptural stainless-steel island, extended by an integrated wooden dining table. The tiled flooring follows the L-shaped geometry of the kitchen, visually connecting the various functions and creating a subtle platform from which to enjoy the living space and jaw dropping views beyond.
The existing architectural structure informed the placement of the kitchen cabinetry. Storage and appliances are carefully integrated into the wall composition, creating a calm and continuous backdrop. Opposite, a full-height wall clad in richly veined burgundy marble acts as a focal point within the room. A sculptural wall light accentuates the natural movement and depth of the stone.
The same marble reappears as an accent within the island itself, where a cube integrated vessel provides a playful and versatile element that can be styled with fruit, flowers, or personal objects. This feature shapeshifts for any event, while throwing a party it acts as an ice bucket to keep drinks cool, during a fancy dinner party it is decorated with delicious oysters and from day to day it can serve as a spectacular fruit basket. A simple intervention that adds even more uniqueness and individuality to a room that already has its own.
THE LIVING ROOM
The living room forms the heart of the apartment. Large windows frame the canal and flood the interior with daylight, creating a strong connection between the home and its surroundings. The abundance of greenery outside gives the impression that the landscape extends naturally inside.
A solid palette of pure and timeless materials provides a timeless foundation for living. Natural stone, oak, stainless steel, and carefully selected finishes create an atmosphere that feels both refined and grounded. The simplicity of the material composition allows the residents' furniture, artwork, and personal objects to shape the character of the space over time.
THE HALLWAY
The calmness of the living room is contrasted by the hallway leading towards the bedrooms and bathrooms. This smaller transitional area is fully colour-drenched in a soft pale blue, creating a distinct identity within the home.
Acting as a threshold between public and private functions, the hallway introduces a more intimate atmosphere and marks the transition towards the personal spaces of the apartment.
Together, these interventions transform the apartment into a layered and contemporary home. By combining expressive and durable materials with carefully considered spatial planning, Studio Modijefsky created the character of an interior that celebrates the grandeur of the monumental canal setting while providing a tailored and personal environment for everyday living for its owner and guests.
Team:
Design: Studio Modijefsky; Esther Stam, Laura Chaves de Miranda, Ivana Stella, Anne Frick, Christel Willers
Photography: Maarten Willemstein
