Find 79+ Gorgeous Traditional Amsterdam House Design Top Choices Of Architects

The traditional house designs of Amsterdam have changed very little since they were first created centuries ago. These homes still embody the city's Dutch culture and history by incorporating elements like gabled roofs, diamond-pane windows, tall chimneys, and various building materials. One example of the traditional Amsterdam house design is the traditional Amsterdam-style townhouses that are built along a row of houses and have side wings that jut out toward the street.

The careful detailing of Amsterdam style house designs sets them apart, from the ornate brickwork on the facade to the elaborate doorways and intricate fretwork that adorn the gables. These designs also often include multiple levels with narrow staircases winding up to the top floor, exposed or recessed beams of wood, and vaulted ceilings. Traditional Amsterdam house designs are proof that a classic exterior can complement an interior filled with modern amenities.

Tulip house designs are unique to Amsterdam, and they borrow their name from the tulip-shaped windows that can be seen in units along many streets. The top of the building is pointed, giving it the look of a flower in full bloom. Considered a modern classic, tulip designs are made with modern construction methods and materials, unlike the traditional Amsterdam house types.

Another characteristic of tulip house designs is the use of bright colors and graphic shapes. These homes often feature a much more daring architecturally than traditional buildings, with an emphasis on slanted walls, balconies, pointed roofs, and an overall “tulip-inspired” shape. These unique houses are intended to stand out from the rest, and provide a colorful addition to any Amsterdam neighborhood.

The canal house is a classic building style in Amsterdam, with many of the oldest houses still in perfect condition. These narrow, gabled homes were built with sloped rooftops to shed the rain off the sides to avoid having leaks in the central area of the roof. This design allowed the house to fit into a smaller footprint but still have plenty of living space. You may also recognize the stepped gables of these houses from early drawings and motion pictures.

The design also typically includes a row house style, where multiple houses connect to one another and draw form from the canals that run alongside. The ceramic tile roofs, masonry facades, and sturdy construction of these buildings make for a timeless and impressive streetscape.

Hollandse School (Dutch School) is a style of architectural design that originated in the Netherlands in the nineteenth century. The style is characterised by the use of natural materials such as brick, stone, wood, and stucco. Luxurious touches like the incorporation of stained glass in some buildings further set these houses apart. The style has three main elements – the stepped gables, the lack of street-level windows, and the dormered attic.

The traditional Dutch gables often include ornate designs which may feature carvings, decorative floral motifs, and even scenes from Dutch folklore. The presence of a dormer attic often provides another hint at its Hollandse School pedigree. Inside, these houses feature spacious and symmetrical rooms with high ceilings, fireplaces, and plenty of space to entertain.

Neo-Renaissance, or “New Renaissance,” is a style of architecture that draws inspiration from the artistic revival that occurred across Europe during the 19th century. Its distinctive features include pointed arches, loggias, and balconies, as well as cupolas and bell towers. Neo-Renaissance buildings are typically distinguished by their symmetrical facade and wealth of decorative details.

These designs can be seen throughout the streets of Amsterdam, and feature a range of impressive building materials such as terracotta tiles, terra cotta bricks, and carved details in stone and wood. Neo-Renaissance houses have become somewhat of a specialty in Amsterdam, offering a unique blend of classic and modern aesthetic that must be seen in person to truly appreciate.

Rijksstijl (“State Style”) is a style of architecture from the early 20th century that took inspiration from Dutch history. The style is characterised by its strict, symmetrical use of classic architectural elements such as arches, columns, and wooden shutters with lockable bolts. Typically constructed of brick and stone, the facades of these houses often feature ornate detail in the form of carvings, moldings, and sgraffito.

The design of these stately homes often includes an eclectic mix of styles, from the traditional Dutch gables to baroque elements. The detailing on these homes is no less impressive, and nearly any Rijksstijl building will feature some sort of extravagant ornamentation along the facade.

The Amsterdamse School (Amsterdam School) was a style of architecture that became popular in Amsterdam between the 1910s and 1930s. It was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, and was characterised by its massive scale, grand arrival spaces, curved window shapes, and the use of brick and decorative ceramics.

This style of home design is truly breathtaking, and these homes feature shutters, metal railings, and other decorations designed to set them apart from other buildings. The exterior features an impressive array of materials, including brick, stone, wood, wrought iron, stained glass, and even terra cotta. Inside, these rooms are often spacious and bright, due to the large windows and open floor plans.

Regent’s house designs are typically associated with the Dutch Regency period in Amsterdam, and these homes feature classical elements such as columns, pilasters, and ornate detailing. They can be made of a variety of materials, including brick, stone, iron, and terra cotta, and the exterior of the buildings is often adorned with plasterwork and other decorative features.

Regents house designs have a strong emphasis on creating a grand entrance, with a large door and portico area that welcomes visitors into the home. Inside, these homes feature a floor plan that is divided into public and private sections, with separate side wings for family areas, living rooms, and bedrooms. Regent’s house designs often include a large central hall and beautiful staircase to round off the stunning architecture.

Art Nouveau (“New Art”) is a style of architecture that began in Paris in the late 19th century and spread quickly throughout Europe. These designs are characterized by the use of curved shapes, floral motifs, and materials such as glass and wrought iron. Art Nouveau houses often feature large windows and balconies, and are often designed with intricate stone and woodwork along the facades.

In Amsterdam, Art Nouveau houses can be found all over the city, and many of the buildings were designed by Dutch architects. As these homes age, the intricate detail of their designs becomes even more pronounced, with ornate stone and stucco carvings that accentuate the façade. Whether you’re looking for a modern or traditional home, Art Nouveau house designs are sure to have something to offer.

Rococo is a style of architecture that was popular in Europe during the early 18th century, and it focused on an elaborate and ornate design. Rococo houses are typically characterized by Baroque details, such as curved walls and ornamental sculptures. The exterior of these homes often incorporates elements such as cupolas, ornamental chimneys, and a variety of materials like stone, wood, and terracotta.

Rococo designs were popularized in Amsterdam by an influential Dutch architect named Jacques de Boer. His designs featured curving gables, terracotta sculptures, and an array of decorative features. Inside, these homes feature over-the-top rococo-style ceilings, thick carpets, and heavy furniture.

Bouwzaam is an architectural style popular in Amsterdam during the late 19th century to early 20th century. It is characterized by its focus on rationalizing traditional building techniques with modern manufacturing, technology, and craftsmanship. Bouwzaam designs typically feature red brick and stone walls, tall and narrow windows, and slate roofs.

The entrance of a Bouwzaam home usually makes an impressive statement, with a tall door that is framed by an archway supported by columns and pilasters. Inside, these houses feature wide hallways, staircases, and beautiful wooden floors. The influence of this style can still be found throughout the city, making Bouwzaam house designs a great choice for those looking for a unique historical home.