Lauriergracht Residence

Amsterdam Residence

RESIDENTIAL
185M2
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

RESIDENTIAL
300M2
WATERGRAAFSMEER, THE NETHERLANDS

Like a rare single malt whisky, the interiors of Lauriergracht Residence resonate with fine oak undertones and the luster of brass.

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Giving vintage our own elevated spin for a Scandinavian design loving couple.

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Giving vintage our own elevated spin for a Scandinavian design loving couple.

Overlooking one of the city’s most charming grachts, this corner apartment receives day-long natural light, thanks to its three outward-facing sides. Designed with a double function in mind, this apartment is one part home to a sophisticated Australian couple, and one part boutique B&B. For this purpose, the 1st floor is divided into two bedrooms with en-suite, both of which boast a collection of 5 star reviews

When we were asked to renovate this impressive 1905 home in an elegant district of Amsterdam, there were 3 key motivations from the client: it needed to be spacious and connected for entertaining; it had to maintain its grand character yet still feel relaxed (as the Dutch are well known for their pragmatism); and since the clients are avid Danish design lovers, it needed to have a warm Scandinavian vintage feel.

When we were asked to renovate this impressive 1905 home in an elegant district of Amsterdam, there were 3 key motivations from the client: it needed to be spacious and connected for entertaining; it had to maintain its grand character yet still feel relaxed (as the Dutch are well known for their pragmatism); and since the clients are avid Danish design lovers, it needed to have a Scandinavian vintage feel.

The owners were looking for an Amsterdam spot that could be mistaken for Parisian, and Studio 34 South founder Chechi Valentine in collaboration with Ramses Caesar responded by alluding, ever so subtly, to the setting of a chic café. The kitchen’s rattan high chairs are only missing the soft pitter-patter of a high-hat, and the deep flavour of a robust, red wine. Indeed, there’s also the additional touch of the French balconies that adorn the first three floors, providing a fantastic view over the bridge and canal.

True to Studio 34 South’s signature style, the house is filled with warm tones, sweeping curves and custom designed pieces, perhaps best expressed by the the three and a half metre bar in the kitchen sculpted from Paonazzo marble. Paired with walnut mitred edge cupboards and grey-washed ribbed wood fronts give a nostalgic vintage feel, and complemented by the 1970’s patinated brass Counterweight pendants hanging above by Florian Schulz. Burnt orange curtains pick up on the marble tones, creating vibrancy and warmth.

Hosting being such an important part of the owner’s lifestyle, there are several elements - such as the working fireplace in the living room - that express feelings of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. And while the open plan space of the 3rd floor allows for the feeling of airy brightness, the custom (3 meter) slab of Italian marble that makes up the kitchen island serves as a point of gravity and social connection.

The custom dining table inlaid with smokey blue gloss paint is paired with olive green Gubi chairs and an opulent 1960’s Paolo Venini Murano glass chandelier. The dining area is flooded with light and inviting charm, and tones of desaturated blue and olive green tie the three living spaces together.

The custom dining table inlaid with smokey blue gloss paint is paired with olive green Gubi chairs and an opulent 1960’s Paolo Venini Murano glass chandelier. The dining area is flooded with light and inviting charm, and tones of desaturated blue and olive green tie the three living spaces together.

Throughout all four floors, the walls speak volumes, with bold yet understated details in the form of custom paneling and the use of chalk-based paints (from luxury British brands Farrow and Ball, and Little Green). The grey that’s used in the top three floors, in particular, responds equally to both lights and shadows, and appears to be in a constant state of transformation. For a colour that’s most often associated with dullness, these walls clearly show that it’s anything but.

The original panelling, ceiling frames, mouldings and doors provide subtle reminders of the building’s history and provenance as a ‘buitenplaats’ or a spacious summer residence for the wealthy Amsterdammers of the Golden Age.

But it’s in the choice of materials that Studio 34 South shows a unique appreciation for heritage, while still maintaining a contemporary spirit. Belgian linen curtains and vintage marble cabinets; triple herringbone floors paired with exquisitely textured carpets. Mid-century chairs and French 1920’s dressers. These are materials and styles that stand the test of time - or, rather, like the patina of leather, they only get better with time.

The clients’ master bedroom is a private and dreamy space, masculine and moody. Inspired by a gentleman’s pin striped suit, the curved bedhead is custom built from ribbed wood and accompanied by a carpet that follows its curve. The bathtub mounted on a marble plinth creates a sensual mood that unabashedly promotes the spoils of self-care. This heady luxury appears again in the en suite’s twin vanity, constructed of dark walnut and marble and finished by brass taps and a simple arched mirror. The cool grey tiled double shower, fitted with London-sourced tap ware, also plays with the tension between opulence and lighthearted elegance.

In a city like Amsterdam, history is more than just a beautiful facade, and by using only high-quality materials that require expert craftsmanship, Studio 34 South continues to build upon the city’s long-standing legacy, one that’s known for being timeless, tasteful, and practical.

Photography by Flare Department - Mart Goossens.

Photography by Maarten WIllemstein.