Amidst the hustle and bustle of Keizersgracht, in Amsterdam's Canal District, a beautiful entrance conceals an extraordinary space. La Retraite is a tasteful and surprising event space where it is possible to both live and work. The space, measuring approximately 165 m², is located on the ground floor and is part of the monumental canal house at Keizersgracht 378.
Guided tour
La Retraite was completely renovated in 2017, creating a tasteful blend of classic and modern. The space features classic double glass doors, creating an elegant separation between the front with a multifunctional open pantry and the rear with ample space for a workspace, meeting room, and/or relaxation area. The current, well-thought-out layout of this space also makes it ideal as a home or pied-à-terre. With living/cooking in the front part, subtly separated from the living area by classic double glass doors, and a sleeping area elegantly marked by a platform with a curtain. Both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Neighborhood Guide
La Retraite is located in the Grachtengordel-West. This cozy and centrally located neighborhood in the heart of the city is home to countless chic restaurants, popular food hotspots, fashion boutiques, and art studios. This section of the Keizersgracht, between Berenstraat and Runstraat, is part of the popular shopping area known as "De 9 Straatjes" (The 9 Streets). With the Leidsestraat shopping street on one side and the traditional Jordaan neighborhood on the other, you can enjoy a lively and
cozy atmosphere. The lively Noordermarkt and Lindengrachtmarkt markets are within walking distance on Saturdays. Thanks to its central location, everything is within cycling and walking distance; a very pleasant and sought-after location for working, entertaining guests, or living.
Details
• Living area approx. 165 m²
• Located on freehold land
• Homeowners’ association fees €338.56 per month
• National historic landmark
• Foundation under the front section repaired and thoroughly renovated in 2017
• Living & working
• Turnkey condition
• Current fixtures and furnishings are offered for purchase
• Residential use is currently permitted only under the current zoning plan. To convert commercial space to residential use, an environmental permit must be obtained and the deed of division must be amended.
La Retraite
This property offers many possibilities. Whether as an event space, executive office, or residence, this hidden gem is an exclusive urban oasis offering the perfect balance between elegance, comfort, and functionality. This space is designed for those who appreciate aesthetics and functionality and wish to settle on the canals of Amsterdam.
Ronald van de Bijl | Real Estate Agent Broersma Wonen
Erik Reijn | Real estate agent Broersma Wonen
The canal house was probably built in 1685 for Matthijs and Pieter Bartelsz. At the time, the building had a gable facade and was used as a soap factory. Later, it was used as a warehouse. Various renovations Location , including a major one in 1800. The facade was then changed to a straight cornice with two consoles. A floor was added at that time and later, around 1890, removed again. It is striking that the height of the building has remained unchanged. For about 15 years, a publishing company (Electrische Drukkerij Vooruitgang / De arbeiderspers) was located at this site. In 2017, the current owner had the foundations repaired and the ground floor thoroughly renovated into attractive office space and event space. The space is part of a small-scale owners' association. The first to third floors are used as residential accommodation. The entire building is in good condition on the outside and is located on its own land.
The open space exudes elegance thanks to the warm wooden accents, the seamless concrete floor, and the impressive lines of the custom-made glass partition wall in classic en-suite style. The multifunctional open pantry with character forms the heart of this space. Characteristic features include the robust wooden furniture, stainless steel built-in appliances, and a stylish alcove, finished with a white tiled back wall and atmospheric wall lighting. This setting is ideal for entertaining guests. The high ceilings, carefully chosen lighting plan, and transparent partition create a natural connection with the adjacent living room. The raised alcove adds a multifunctional character with space for relaxation. The symmetrically placed windows at the rear allow daylight to enter, giving the space a calm and representative feel. In this area, a luxurious loft feeling is created by the high ceilings with original beams and the warm wooden floor pattern.
Thanks to subtle built-in features in the raised alcove, the bedroom is a sheltered and serene space. The combination of natural linen textures, warm wall colors, and carefully selected Spotlight creates an atmosphere of tranquility and refinement. The layout is compact but balanced; the alcove offers a comfortable cocoon with a view of the black metal window frames, allowing daylight to enter harmoniously here too. The bathroom exudes the same refinement, with a choice of materials that blend vintage and modern. The custom-made base cabinet in warm wood contrasts tastefully with the white ceramic of the washbasins. The gold fixtures and characterful mirror frames with wood carvings add a classic accent to the whole. The spacious walk-in shower is tiled in white masonry and equipped with a brushed brass rain shower, evoking the feeling of a boutique hotel. The separate toilet is in the same style, with a wall-mounted toilet, a characteristic washbasin, and a sober finish in white ceramic and gold-colored fittings.
The outdoor space at the front creates a charming and intimate setting, with a subtly raised terrace Immediately to the entrance. This creates an inviting place for a cup of coffee in the morning sun or a moment of peace by the canal. Opening the doors creates a direct connection between inside and outside, with a seamless transition. The view of the iconic facade on the opposite side makes this outdoor space a small but fully-fledged extension of the living environment.
La Retraite is located in the Grachtengordel-West. This cozy and centrally located area in the heart of the city is home to countless chic restaurants, popular food hotspots, fashion boutiques, and art studios. This section of the Keizersgracht, between Berenstraat and Runstraat, is part of the popular shopping area known as "De 9 Straatjes" (The 9 Streets). With the Leidsestraat shopping street on one side and the traditional Jordaan neighborhood on the other, you can find hustle and bustle and conviviality. The lively Noordermarkt and Lindengrachtmarkt markets are within walking distance on Saturdays. Thanks to its central location, everything is within cycling and walking distance; a very pleasant and sought-after location for working, entertaining guests, or living.
accessibility
Thanks to its central location, La Retraite is very easily accessible. The southern part of the canal opens up via the Stadhouderskade to the Vijzelgracht and via the Spiegelgracht. For those who cycle, walk, or drive to work, there are several routes, including via the Leidsegracht. Public transport is just around the corner: tram lines on Vijzelstraat and the metro stop on Vijzelgracht are Immediately . Public transport provides access to all parts of Amsterdam, including the Zuidas. The nearest tram stops are Koningsplein and Westermarkt, and buses Rooms Elandsgracht. The Rokin metro stop (North/South line) is a 10-minute walk away.
parking facilities
Parking is available on public roads via a pay-and-display system or a permit system. Information about the conditions and options for obtaining a (business) permit and any waiting times can be requested from the Local authority . The Q-Park Europarking parking garage on Marnixstraat is a 10-minute walk away. Various subscription options are available here.