Amsterdam

Destinations

21 Mar

Written By NBH

WITH EVEN ELEVEN

The founders posing in a warmly lit bar with elegant Art Deco-inspired interiors. — Amsterdam is a city where history and innovation intertwine, offering a dynamic canvas for interior designers. Defined by its iconic canal houses, repurposed industrial spaces, and cutting-edge design hubs, the city embraces both heritage and modernity. Dutch design is rooted in functionality, bold creativity, and sustainability, favouring clean lines, natural materials, and unexpected details. From the Het Stedelijk Museum’s cultural influence to the cosy corners of Mendo Bookstore, Amsterdam exudes effortless style. A hub of artistic energy and forward-thinking craftsmanship, it remains a haven for designers who seek both tradition and reinvention.
**MARCH 2025**
**Words:** designeers and EVEN ELEVEN

A stylish café with an open-concept kitchen, sleek industrial accents, and a wood-fired oven.

A breakfast and coffee stop:

Bakkerij Wolf

If you're in the mood for a freshly baked croissant, a hearty sandwich, or simply a good cup of coffee, Bakkerij Wolf offers a warm and inviting spot to satisfy your cravings in the heart of Amsterdam (9 Streets).

The grand staircase of the Stedelijk Museum, surrounded by modern artworks and a glass ceiling.

favourite design museum:

Het Stedelijk Museum

Het Stedelijk Museum offers an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, design, and photography, with works from Van Gogh, Mondrian, Malevich, Picasso, and more.

favourite ART GALLERY:

Newhouse Gallery

Newhouse Gallery, a beautiful space showing leading and emerging designers, was founded by Mick Nieuwenhuis. The gallery blurs the boundaries between contemporary art and design, creating a dynamic platform for both emerging and established artists. A special emphasis is placed on showcasing the Arts & Métiers of Dutch artists.

A cocktail or wine bar:

Zum Barbarossa

An intimate bar, right in the middle of the city yet still hidden away. The interior boasts sleek lines and ambient lighting, providing a contemporary twist on the classic speakeasy ambiance.

A lunch to indulge into:

Petit Caron

Established by the Caron family, known for their culinary ventures, Petit Caron offers a menu of small, shareable dishes crafted with high-quality ingredients. The interior, designed by architectural firm Dam & Partners, draws inspiration from Parisian bar à mangers,

FINE DINING RESTAURANT:

VanOost Restaurant

Discover VanOost, located in Hotel Pillows Maurits at the Park, in a former university building from 1908. Inspired by Japanese and French cooking influences, chef Floris van Straalen crafts dishes that take you on a journey from east to west.

a design hotel to stay in:

The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam

Housed in a building that was originally commissioned by the Royal Holland Lloyd Shipping Company in 1921. Besides 136 bedrooms,The Hoxton has a cocktail bar, a European brasserie, and an original Dutch windmill for a neighbour.

Your go-to bookstore or magazine shop:

Mendo Bookstore

MENDO Bookstore at ‘t Huys, a cultural and retail wing of the historic Hotel De L'Europe Amsterdam. The store is celebrated for its curated selection of visually inspiring books spanning art, design, photography, fashion, and lifestyle. Its design, crafted by the Amsterdam-based firm Nicemakers, offers a plush, library-like ambiance.

A PLACE TO FIND ART, FURNITURE AND DESIGN OBJECTS:

Frozen Fountain

Where a lot of Dutch design can be seen from great talents and young designers such as Dirk van der Kooij, Piet Hein Eek, Maarten Baas and Hella Jongerius. Whether you're a design professional or an enthusiast, The Frozen Fountain provides a unique and enriching experience, embodying the innovative spirit of Dutch design.

An artisT everyone should know about:

Maryse Ceha

Her work captures the beauty of imperfection and transience, often using epoxy resin to create polished surfaces that invite viewers to delve into the layers beneath.

Favourite boutique or concept store for design inspiration:

Noelle Baartmans

Interior stylist Noelle Baartmans operates a studio and shop. Here you can explore a beautifully curated collection of vintage furniture and accessories from regions like Australia, Los Angeles, France, and Spain.

A must-visit street or neighbourhood for design lovers:

9 Streets and Jordaan

The 9 Streets and Jordaan are two of the most charming neighborhoods in Amsterdam, to visit for their beautiful canals, art galleries, vibrant cafés and for cute boutiques such as Kat Klerks.

Favourite outdoor space or garden for a moment of tranquillity:

Park Frankendael

Park Frankendael, known for its manor house, gardens, and Michelin-starred restaurant, De Kas. It offers a mix of nature, culture, and history, making it a favourite among locals for relaxing walks, picnics, and dining experiences.