Amsterdam Loft

This project entails a renovation of an apartment in the east of Amsterdam. After a large-scale renovation of a former corporation building block from 1924, the attics were delivered in “grey shell†form, without any installation or finishing. In the pre-renovated space, a single brick bearing wall splits the apartment. The fir wood roof construction beams are the only visible historical element left. The bearing wall determines the composition of the apartment, while the beams offer initiative for the materialisation of the interior.


Maximising space, light and comfort further determines the general direction of the design choices. As a result, the apartment as a whole has been kept open as much as possible, while the bedroom and office space is small and cozy in contrast. A roof window and dormer were build to gain extra floor space and daylight. Adding to the generous amount of windows bringing in light from all directions all day long.


At the entrance, a narrow but high corridor leads to the main space of the house. In here, high, oak wood veneered doors and frames give entry to the bathroom and study. The built-in wardrobe follows the same style. The doors of the installation rooms, also in the corridor, are contrasting with white matte finish and built in-cabinet-like door sizes, starting higher from the floor.


The generous size of the kitchen block, in combination with the tall bookshelf, increases the sense of height in the space. On the side of the block is a shallow, oak-veneered cabinet for books as well as kitchen storage. The mix of functions makes the division between the kitchen and living room softer. 


The mezzanine with cupboards and stairs is designed as one and finished with oak veneer as well. This piece of furniture is supported by the bearing wall on one side and hangs from the roof on the other side. It results in a tiny bedroom house that burrows under the rooftop. Without support in the underlying living room this area stay open and free. The mezzanine is made of a simple beamed ceiling that adds to the coziness of the seating area. Holes in the ceiling function as ventilation and make a composition with the beams.


The bathroom is tiled with 60 years old tiles from a French factory where nowadays Winckelmans tiles are produced. Though a minimal-sized space, it holds many functionalities like a washer, drying, vanity desk, storage, toilet and shower. The bathroom still feels spacious and light with daylight and a partially high ceiling.


The minimal color and material pallet offer calm spaces throughout the apartment. The white walls reflect the daylight that during the days and months show varying tones. 


Finally, high-quality materials, equipment and installations ensure comfort. The A+ energy label is the highest achievable level for renovated buildings.