House in Haarlem – Historic Retrofit and Modern Family Living

This project involved the complete renovation of a 1914 historic "Herenhuis" in the Kleverpark neighborhood of Haarlem. Purchased from the daughter-in-law of the original owner, the home had remained largely untouched since it was built, requiring a full retrofit to bring it into the 21st century.

The transformation included comprehensive upgrades to insulation, ventilation, and heating, ensuring energy efficiency and long-term comfort. The interior layout was entirely reimagined, including a new extension at the rear and an additional upper level to accommodate a growing family.

Respecting the heritage of the Kleverpark district, the garden-facing façade was designed to subtly blend into the classical streetscape, with refined contemporary detailing. A standout feature is the three-meter-high sliding glass wall on the ground floor, which opens up the entire rear façade. This creates a seamless connection between the interior and the garden, turning the living room into a summer oasis and encouraging an indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Inside, structural walls were replaced with steel beams and columns to open up the ground floor, allowing for a fluid and flexible living space where the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas are fully integrated. The use of color and tactile materials throughout the house adds warmth, coherence, and a playful rhythm to the design, supporting both daily life and long-term adaptability.

This project is a testament to how thoughtful design can breathe new life into heritage architecture — preserving its story while shaping it for modern family living.