This project reimagines the first floor of a traditional residential building in the center of Amsterdam, breathing new life into its narrow, deep spaces. The whole design revolves around a unique feature, the centerpiece, a sculptural oak core aptly named the “Oak Heart”.
Project Name: Frans halsstraat
Studio Name: Cantero Architecture
Location: Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Clients: Private clients
Initiated: August 2017
Completion: October 2018
Architect: Inmaculada Cantero Tamayo | Cantero Architecture
Photos: Luuk Smits
The sculptural oak core is a walk-in closet that acts as a central hub, visually and spatially connecting the two main bedrooms and exteriors on this floor. Made from warm oak it offers ample storage solutions with unexpected compartments hidden within its structure.
Natural light & connection to the outside: A translucent glass corridor extends the full length of the floor, alongside the oak heart, providing access to each room. Its glass walls allow the interiors to bathe in natural light, while maintaining a sense of continuity. It also connects to the outside through a new expansive window opening the back facade, offering a glimpse of the private garden, a small escape within the city.
Spa-like bathroom: Warm wood, handcrafted blue ceramic tiles, and natural lava stone basins create a calming and peaceful atmosphere, inviting you to focus on your well-being in a relaxing environment.
Beyond Functionality: The design offers a sensory experience through a variety of textures and materials. Rich, handcrafted oak furniture – each piece a testament to skilled craftsmanship – seamlessly blends storage solutions with aesthetic appeal. Natural tones of warm wood and cool stone, further enhanced by sophisticated black brushed metal accents create a beautiful contrast, adding depth and character to the space, all while the neutral palette of white walls and dark floors provides a timeless foundation.
More than just a renovation, Oak Heart is a testament to Cantero Architecture’s philosophy of respecting the existing while enhancing it with contemporary design solutions. This project not only optimizes space and functionality but also preserves the traditional charm of the Amsterdam apartment and offers a harmonious connection with the surrounding environment, creating a unique and enriching living experience for its residents.
About Firm:
Based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Cantero Architecture is a dynamic architectural office specializing in renovations, extensions, furniture design and interior design.
We collaborate with a team of international multidisciplinary professionals. Depending on the requirements of every project, we seek their unique expertise to help us achieve our goals. We believe that sharing knowledge is a step towards reaching perfection in our work. Cantero Architecture’s motivation is founded on the desire of optimizing both space and circumstances, bringing passion and enthusiasm in all of our projects.
Its founder, Inmaculada Cantero Tamayo, is a Spanish architect that followed her professional training in Spain and Germany, where she specialized and qualified in building rehabilitation. She founded her own architecture studio, Cantero Architecture, in 2017 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
