Some homes don’t conquer at first glance, but rather grow on you—step by step. Monnickendammerrijweg 18 A is such a place. A detached villa that opens up to the landscape, offering a bright and independent living experience inside, and an unexpectedly deep garden that embraces the seasons. What stood out immediately upon entering was the care taken—reflected in the renovation lines and choice of materials. Not a bold architectural statement demanding attention, but a home that gives space—to its residents and to the view. We call it The Estate of Ilpendam. Because it is more than a house. It is a domain. With privacy, comfort, and a strong connection to nature—from the terrace under the plane tree to the wooden boardwalk by the water. A home for those seeking freedom, without losing touch with the city.
Tour
We approach the home via a quiet country road, just outside the charming village center of Ilpendam. Nestled in greenery, a wide driveway appears, flanked by mature trees and a wooden gate marking the transition into a private world. The villa has a refined and luxurious look: white-rendered, with black window frames and a dark tiled roof—contemporary, yet fitting into the landscape. Inside, the serene atmosphere is immediate. Natural light pours in through large windows, creating a clear line of sight from the living area to the garden, where trees embrace the plot. The living space is generous, yet never excessive. The fireplace forms the heart, accompanied by a deep sofa, art on the wall, and views of grazing sheep. On the other side is the dining area, ideal for long evenings. The adjoining kitchen combines dark cabinetry with natural stone and designer lighting. A bar at the island invites conversation, just steps from the terrace bathed in morning sun. In the private quarters, we find the master bedroom with French doors to the garden, a spacious walk-in closet, and a bathroom designed like a sculpture: freestanding tub, double rain shower, and handcrafted basins. Under the sloped roof upstairs are several rooms—perfect for use as home office, children’s rooms or guest quarters. There's also a bright second bathroom with views over the treetops. The garden is impressive in both feeling and layout: with a lawn, play area, terrace under the plane tree, hot tub, treehouse, and a boardwalk along the water. The detached garden house is ideal as a gym or creative studio. At the water’s edge lies the boathouse: a compact addition with a work space and a charming guest room with en-suite bathroom —perfect for visitors or working from home.
Neighborhood Guide
Ilpendam is a picturesque dike village in the Waterland region, just north of Amsterdam. Here, you live in peace and quiet, with views over vast meadows and waterways—yet the city is only fifteen minutes away. Monnickendammerrijweg reflects the soul of the village: historic ribbon development, old farmhouses, and a sense of space rarely found anymore. Ilpendam offers the charm of true village life: children playing outside, neighbors who know each other, and all essentials within walking distance—such as the primary school, village shop, and sports fields. In summer, you can take a boat straight into the Ilperveld nature area; in winter, the landscape transforms into a dreamy skating scene. Ilpendam offers the best of both worlds: rural living with Amsterdam’s vibrancy always within reach.
Specifications
• Living area approx. 216 m²
• Garden all around with boathouse/garden house
• Freehold property
• Energy label A++
• Renovated in 2020/2021
• Parking in own property
• Electric car charging point at the driveway
• Furnishings negotiable
Groene Oase
Some homes don’t capture you at first glance, but slowly win you over with every step you take. Monnickendammerrijweg 18 A is one of those places. A detached villa that opens up to the landscape, with a light-filled and independent living space inside, and a surprisingly deep garden that embraces the seasons. From the moment you walk in, the attention to detail is clear. In the clean lines of the renovation and the carefully chosen materials. No bold architecture demanding attention, but a home that gives space — to its residents and to the view. We call it The Country Retreat of Ilpendam. Because it’s more than just a house. It’s a domain. Offering privacy, comfort, and a deep connection to nature — from the terrace under the plane tree to the wooden boardwalk by the water. A home for those seeking freedom, without losing touch with the city.
Judith de Jong | Real Estate Agent Broersma Residential
At the end of a quiet driveway, nestled among mature trees and open lawns, lies a detached villa that opens discreetly to the surrounding landscape. Originally built in the mid-twentieth century, the architecture reflects a sense of solidity and simplicity. In 2020, the house underwent a complete transformation. While the original structure was preserved, a new sense of living was introduced: light, space, calm, and comfort. The renovation subtly strengthened the connection between indoors and outdoors. Large windows, double French doors, and the carefully considered placement of verandas and terraces create a seamless transition between the house and its natural surroundings. From morning sun to evening light, there is always a place that moves with the rhythm of the day. The composition of the house is playful and varied, yet it never loses its serene presence. The materials reflect a clear vision. White façades, black window frames, and ceramic roof tiles create a calm and timeless foundation. Details such as galvanized gutters, a cast-iron door grille, and subtle outdoor lighting give the house character without seeking to impress. Inside, sightlines, symmetry, and abundant daylight define a natural flow and a sense of openness. What stands out is the coherence in both design and execution. Every element has been carefully considered—attuned to everyday living and to the unique qualities of the plot. No excess, only lasting quality. The result is a home that doesn’t try to stand out, but instead convinces through harmony and balance — ready for the next generation. Also on the grounds is a separate boathouse, designed in the same style and with the same attention to detail. On the lower level, a workspace overlooking the water; above, a guest suite with its own bathroom. Independent, yet fully connected to the character of this exceptional estate.
The living space is warm, characterful, and opens up to greenery. It forms the vibrant heart of the home: an open, inviting area where living, dining, and cooking naturally flow together. Large windows on both sides frame views of the surrounding landscape, with sheep in the meadow and swaying grass as a backdrop. The interior feels both rich and relaxed — a mood created through colour, texture, and the thoughtful placement of furniture. What stands out immediately is the interior’s strong sense of personality. The living room is generous in size, yet retains a sense of intimacy thanks to the layered design. Every corner has its own character, without disrupting the overall harmony. From the deep, upholstered seating to the wall adorned with hanging guitars, the space tells a story. The fireplace serves as a calm focal point, carefully integrated into a panelled wall that adds both warmth and verticality.
Every room has been carefully designed to evoke a sense of comfort and balance, with plenty of attention to light, materials, and atmosphere. The primary bedroom on the ground floor is a serene retreat. With direct access to the garden, it welcomes the morning light, while warm tones on the walls and deep-colored textiles create a calming, earthy ambiance. Adjacent is a spacious, custom-built walk-in closet that offers both clarity and comfort. The ensuite bathroom is a sanctuary in itself. Walls and floors are finished in large-format marble in soft hues. A freestanding bathtub takes center stage, surrounded by dual rain showers and natural stone sinks. Deep red wall tones enhance the warm, luxurious feel — a space that feels like a private spa. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, each with its own unique charm. The largest room, beneath a sloping roof with exposed wooden beams, exudes the cozy atmosphere of a mountain chalet. The children’s rooms are playful and colorful, with surprising sightlines to the surrounding landscape. The second bathroom also stands out — compact yet expressive, finished with a herringbone pattern in natural stone. This floor also includes a practical laundry area, cleverly integrated into the layout. Everything is both functional and thoughtfully executed, with each room benefiting from the open setting and views of the surrounding greenery. What stands out most: the silence. No traffic, no hustle — just the rustling of leaves and birdsong. For those who want to separate living and working, or welcome guests in comfort, the detached boathouse is the perfect solution. The guest room in the boathouse offers complete privacy, along with space for a waterside workspace, surrounded by peace and nature. An inspiring place — both in use and in appearance.
Surrounding the home is a lush landscape that not only embraces the house, but also opens in every direction to peace, freedom, and sunlight. Thanks to its free-standing position, there’s always a spot in the sun — or, if preferred, cooling shade beneath the old trees. On the south and west sides, the lawn and terraces flow seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Large sliding doors connect the interior with the outdoors, offering direct access to the wooden deck, sheltered lounge terraces, and open grassy areas. Deeper into the garden, a more secluded world unfolds. Nestled among the trees are a sturdy treehouse, a wood-fired hot tub, and a studio-like outbuilding. A path of low-maintenance stone weaves past flowering plants, oversized pots, and a natural pond, with views over the meadow beyond, where sheep graze near a small animal shelter. For children, it’s a paradise — space to run, a trampoline, a play area, and water nearby. For adults, it’s a place for reflection, with spots to lounge, read, or work in the shade. The garden hasn’t just been landscaped — it’s been composed. Designed with a careful eye for sightlines, privacy, seasonal beauty, and everyday usability. At the rear of the property lies the boathouse: autonomous, understated, and highly functional. It includes space for a studio or workspace overlooking the water, and a fully equipped guest suite with its own bathroom. Ideal for visitors, working from home, or a quiet personal retreat. It enhances the self-sufficiency of the estate, without disrupting the harmony of the whole. Everything here breathes freedom. The garden is generous, but never grandiose. Layered, yet unpretentious. Natural and at the same time intentional — a true extension of the home.
Ilpendam is a picturesque dike village in the Waterland region, just north of Amsterdam. Here, you can live in peace and quiet, with views over wide-open meadows and winding waterways, while the city remains less than fifteen minutes away. The Monnickendammerrijweg tells the story of the village: historic ribbon development, old farmhouses, and a sense of space that’s increasingly rare. Ilpendam offers the charm of village life: children playing in the street, neighbours who know each other, and a primary school, village shop, and sports fields all within walking distance. In summer, you can sail straight into the Ilperveld nature reserve; in winter, the landscape transforms into an idyllic skating scene. Ilpendam truly offers the best of both worlds: rural living with the vibrant energy of Amsterdam always close by.
Accessibility
Ilpendam is located in a unique spot, where rural tranquillity meets urban convenience. From Monnickendammerrijweg 18 A, you can reach the A10 ring road within ten minutes, making Amsterdam, the Zuidas business district, and Schiphol Airport surprisingly easy to access. The IJ Tunnel and Piet Hein Tunnel are also nearby, providing quick connections by car in every direction. For cyclists, the city is just around the corner. Quiet country roads through Waterland take you on a scenic route to Amsterdam-Noord, where ferries connect you to the city centre. Just a few minutes away by bike are the charming village of Broek in Waterland and a bus stop on the N235. From there, bus line 305 runs frequently to Amsterdam Central Station, even during peak hours. Daily amenities such as supermarkets, schools, and sports facilities can be found in nearby Monnickendam or Purmerend—both reachable within fifteen minutes by car. Still, it’s the immediate surroundings that set the tone: meadows, ditches, small cycle bridges, and calming views define the pace of life here. The location is serene, but far from isolated. A place where you can unwind without losing sight of the city.
Parking
Private on-site parking is available.
From the very first moment we stepped into the living room, we fell in love with this home. The green view, right on the water – it became our ‘live’ television screen, changing with every season. We transformed the entire house from scratch, with love and passion, into our dream home. And you can feel that in every detail. From the exceptional Italian natural stone kitchen with double oven and American fridge (plus an optional coffee corner!) to the marble bathroom with double rain shower – everything exudes style and comfort. The greatest gift? That we – and especially the kids – spend so much more time outside than we ever did living in the city, come rain or shine. The garden surrounding the house offers plenty of places to sit, relax, or play. Thanks to the unique positioning to the east, south, and west, there’s sun at any time of day. Whether you’re sitting under the cooling plane trees or gazing at the walnut and apple trees – it feels like a holiday in your own backyard. The rear terrace, overlooking the water, in particular, can feel like being abroad on a summer day. Because the house stands entirely free and is one of the few homes directly on the water, we’ve always enjoyed complete privacy. That feeling is enhanced by the natural light in the home: from early morning to the final rays of sunlight, daylight streams into the living room through the large windows. Every day a new painting – full of birds, seasonal colours, and space. Indoors, it’s just as enjoyable in every season. In winter, the fireplace becomes the warm heart of the house. In summer, you can open the double doors from the bedroom to let in a cool breeze and the sound of birds in the trees. The walk-in closet offers all the space you could wish for. And with a dedicated playroom as a private paradise for the kids, there’s always peace and quiet for the parents. We also made the house future-proof: with solar panels on all sides, a heat pump, and underfloor heating on the ground floor, the home is largely self-sufficient. Smart home technology adds touch-free lighting in the hallway, adding both comfort and safety. Downstairs, there’s even a charming wine cellar with rustic terracotta tiles – the perfect spot to pick out a bottle with friends. And with a projector and 5.1 surround sound system, the living room turns into a cinema experience that rarely feels this close to home. Ilpendam is the perfect village to settle down as a young family. You’ll find everything here: from primary schools and childcare to football and tennis clubs, a friendly village café on the square with year-round events and festivities, a park with a playground, and a local shop for fresh bread, meat, cheese, and other daily needs. And the best part? While we wake up every day to wide-open views across the fields, we’re only 14 minutes by bus from the heart of Amsterdam. For us, it truly was: the best of both worlds.