Interior Studio van Maanen & Ramses Caesar were assigned to transform a 500 sqm family home in Amsterdam that was built in the early 1900s. The clients, who have lived in this house for almost 30 years, sought a modern update that respected their collected style while brightening the space and optimising the layout. Throughout the process, we worked closely with the client, ensuring a true collaboration that incorporated their vision. The renovation was extensive, transforming the basement from mere storage into a fully functional floor with a guest bedroom, guest bathroom, wine cellar, and multiple storage spaces. The house now spans five levels, including a rooftop and a garden. To achieve the client’s desire for more light, we broke open certain walls, replaced south-facing windows, and incorporated custom metal and glass doors inspired by Art Nouveau shapes. The buildings in the street have subtle Art Nouveau elements in the architecture. This inspired us to pay homage in a modern, minimalistic way. The interior was refreshed with a neutral and calm palette, accented by more cooler colours like blues, greens, and purples, combined with warm woods and metal details. Significant attention was given to architectural lighting to ensure the space -particularly the artworks- was perfectly illuminated. Decorative lighting fixtures are exclusively vintage or antique finds. The primary bedroom features hand-painted striped walls that may appear to be wallpaper at first glance. It’s a testament to the craftsmanship and level of detail that went into this project. In the primary bathroom, the design centered around the stained glass windows, with all the materials and colours chosen to complement the glass. The vanity is a custom piece, offering a modern twist on classic tubular vanity designs. This thoughtful mix of modern and classic elements, shaped through close collaboration with the client, creates a fresh and inviting home that truly reflects their personality.