The Herengracht Project refers to a 17th century town house on the banks of the Herengracht canal, one of the three largest canals in the city of Amsterdam, which was beautifully restored and given a new identity as a family residence, under the expert eye of Studio RUIM. The sheer dimensions of the space made it an ideal project for the design studio headed by Rene van der Leest and Sigrid van Kleef, a pioneering duo with a rich background in theatrical and costume design as well as interior design.

The high ceilinged interior retains its old world charm through the carefully restored paneling and woodwork by local artisans and has been awarded a dramatic element of contemporary aesthetics through the introduction of modern materials such as steel, Corian and concrete. The living room was visually reduced to a cozier space by the installation of a central raised platform of steel and wenge wood. A defining feature of the room is the custom designed steel frame, suspended from the ceiling, a visual homage to the intricate decorative details of the plasterwork of years gone by.  In addition to the decorative ceiling frame, Studio RUIM were also responsible for the baroque-light artwork, dramatic pieces created with the intention to surprise.

The contemporary kitchen is backed by restored murals of pastoral themes, another example of the wonderful balance of contrasting elements within the home and making the space bold enough to withstand the dramatic custom designed copper light fittings. An articulate refurbishment, sensitive of the heritage of the site, has been achieved to provide a comfortable luxurious family residence in a truly enviable location.