‘Het Torenhuys’, a former substation designed by the Public Works Department
A long search
Because of our work, we wanted to move to Amsterdam. We were living in Vlissingen, but the commute was becoming too much. Our search began in 2010. I think we looked at around 100 houses. But we couldn't find the right one. To be honest, we were focusing on Oud-Zuid. Partly because the city was new to us. We simply had no idea. But when we saw this house, we were immediately Sold."
We were about to rent a house when our parents ran into some friends at the supermarket. They were selling their house in Amsterdam, in Oud-West. Did they know anyone who might be interested? That's how the ball started rolling. We went to see it together and were overwhelmed by the space, the industrial identity, the 4-meter-high ceilings, the light, and the enormous depth. Two days later, we bought the property. We fell in love instantly.'
The house is located in the heart of the city, in the heart of life.
We also immediately connected with the location and the neighborhood. The house is located in the center of the city, in the heart of life. However, when you close the door behind you, you hear nothing and peace descends. Sometimes we think that if something happens here in the street, we don't notice it.Thepeople here in the neighborhood are so friendly. Most of them have lived here for years. Some for as long as 10 years. Every month, we organize a Pasta Evening with the neighborhood. We regularly enjoy a drink on the sidewalk."
When we moved here, this house had been decorated in a rather artistic style by the previous occupants, to say the least. They were a creative couple. We tackled everything except the authentic elements and details. Naturally, we worked around those, as they tell the story of the house. On the ground floor, we started with the kitchen. We removed a wall and placed a large kitchen island in the middle of the new space. We actually always sit here. Together, but also with friends. Except in winter, when we sit more by the fireplace."
‘This house really has a history, a story that is wonderful to tell.’
We hired an architect for the upper floor: Mark Graafland from Bureau Kroner. He had helped us with a renovation before. He completely surprised us with his spatial design. He used materials that blend seamlessly into the façade but also give the house a sturdy and modern look. He conducted extensive research into the original design. For example, the aluminum plates and glass are constructed to form a relief, which is characteristic of the Amsterdam School style. When we moved here, there was only one bedroom, located in the attic. By Rooms additional Rooms , the house has become more functional. A sea of space has been added. We also Roof terrace a large Roof terrace , where we regularly sit and relax in the sun after work."
