Renowned for its art museums and manor-lined leafy streets, Oud-Zuid (Old-South) maintains its status as one of Amsterdam’s most sought-after residential suburbs. It’s also where many of the city’s historical buildings are located, including the one where Amsterdam Loft resides. Previously an office and warehouse space, the brick-clad building was only recently redeveloped into a high-end residential building consisting of only 18 apartments. 

The apartment’s design is centred around two materials – smoked Eucalyptus and textured travertine – which, when paired together, impart a warm, comforting quality to the spaces. “The richness of the Eucalyptus embraces you as soon as you step in and, when contrasted against the travertine, mimics the atmosphere of a remote beach,” I+Y co-founder Rienk Wiersma says. She adds that the continuity of these materials was key to ensuring fluidity, which in turn calms the senses.

Rienk cites Japanese minimalism as a primary source of inspiration for the project, including honest and simple materials, open and light-filled spaces, and limited yet comfortable furnishings. He also speaks to the influence of Brutalist architecture in shaping the home’s sharp lines and strong forms, referencing the stone kitchen island as an example.