Set within a canal house dating to 1652, this triple-level apartment on Herengracht in Amsterdam is an exercise in measured intervention. The building’s historic shell remains intact, while the interior has been reworked under the direction of the current owner, who founded Dutch design studio Buro Kif. Over three stories his contemporary design operates with restraint, allowing proportion, light and movement to define the space. He’s recently put the home on the market for €1.25 million with Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
Photography: courtesy of Boelen Makelaardij.
At the centre of the 130sqm plan is a sculptural metal spiral staircase with semi-transparent treads, drawing daylight through the home and connecting the three levels. Bedrooms are arranged across the lower floors, including a full-width principal suite with bespoke storage and an ensuite bathroom. Two further bedrooms occupy the level above, one opening directly onto a small terrace overlooking the rear of the block. Throughout, custom joinery and integrated storage sit quietly against the historic structure, supported by modern interventions such as partial underfloor heating and a domotica automation system.
The uppermost floor is given over to living and dining. The bespoke Buro Kif kitchen was conceived as a freestanding object rather than a fitted wall. Window seating frames views across the canal towards the Westerkerk, grounding the interior within its setting. Above it all, a roof terrace offers elevated views across the canal, the Nine Streets and the Jordaan.
