Amsterdam South Residence

In renovating this 1930s house in Amsterdam, Serge Schoemaker Architects created a refined interior full of contrast. Through a series of strategic interventions, the ground floor was reimagined both spatially and functionally, elevating the home to contemporary living standards.

The semi-detached house is located on an upper-class residential street in the south of Amsterdam. By introducing new sightlines, the design opened up the ground floor while retaining its charming 1930s character. The use of high-end materials lends the clean-lined interior a sense of timeless elegance.

The existing spatial qualities of the house were carefully exploited. The intermediate floor in the existing extension was removed, creating a striking, high-ceilinged kitchen with rooflights overhead. The new roof windows, combined with the light-grey concrete floor, make this the brightest space in the house.

The traditional compartmentalized layout of the ground floor has been replaced with an open plan, structured by floor-to-ceiling carpentry elements. A see-through fireplace now marks the former division between the living and dining rooms.

A sculptural, multipurpose element, positioned between the dining room and kitchen, defines the transition from the living area to the tall extension. It houses a passage to the garage and incorporates a staircase leading to the wine room above.

The renovation exudes a carefully composed simplicity, defined by precise detailing. The bespoke mahogany elements form a striking contrast with the light-filled interior, reinforcing the home’s new distinctive character.