The home is located in a 250m2 18th century warehouse with a panoramic view over the city. The interior of the loft situated in an old sugar warehouse built 1763, had remained in its original state for almost 250 years and the owners wanted to keep as much intact with as little intervention to the space as possible.
In keeping the original open-plan layout UXUS created a series of dramatic curtain walls that could be opened and closed according to the needs of use. Made of luxurious Italian linen, the curtain walls are opaque when lit from the front yet transparent from behind. At night, the space becomes a series of glowing tents, creating the effect of a surreal interior landscape.
All of the decorative interior elements were selected to reflect the eclectic tastes of the owners.
Below you can also find an interview concerning the Amsterdam Loft by UXUS :
Who owns the loft?
The loft is owned by a couple, both of whom are designers and art collectors.
What did the clients want?
The owners of the loft wanted to create a unique home that would display their collection of art and design. The interior of the 240m2 space had remained in its original state for almost 250 years and the owners wanted to keep as much intact with as little intervention to the space as possible.
How was the renovation tackled?
The owners wanted to retain the open plan nature of the loft, yet wanted to create ‘rooms’. UXUS decided therefore to curtain off areas to divide the space. The main curtain is in fact concealing closets. The furniture and art are clustered within the open plan creating the effect of “rooms” inside the loft.
What are the curtains made out of?
Italian linen.
What was the design philosophy of the architects?
UXUS are interested in the idea of ‘brand poetry’ or the fusing together art and design. We define “Brand Poetry” as an artistic solution for commercial needs. Artistic solutions target emotions; emotions connect people in a meaningful way. Design gives function, art gives meaning, poetry expresses the essence.
How old is the loft?
The loft was originally built as a sugar factory built in 1763. The pillars and columns are original.
What is the floor material?
The floor is French chestnut, and was installed in the late 1970s.
Who chose the furniture and art and where they purchased?
The owners held many of the pieces that they had collected over the years from all over the world, other pieces were sourced by the designers to compliment the existing pieces. Antiques and vintage furnishings have been mixed with contemporary pieces and Dutch art to create an eclectic and poetic feeling to the space. The result is highly personal yet surprising, given the simple and humble materials that are being used. Please refer to the furnishings map for details on furniture and art.
