Berenstraat 7 (Amsterdams Welvaren), 1016GC Amsterdam

A truly unique property of approximately 278 m², situated in the heart of Amsterdam’s famous Nine Streets. Berenstraat 7 once served as the first infant school in the Netherlands, was converted into a residence in the early 20th century and is a nationally listed monument.

The current owner purchased the property in 2011 and transformed it over nearly three years into a remarkable home, rich in original details and distinctive design elements. The intention was to create the feeling of entering a museum, while retaining the comfort and functionality of a private residence. The property also benefits from a beautifully landscaped south-facing garden and a roof terrace.

Location

The Nine Streets are located in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is known for its monumental architecture, boutiques, restaurants and cafés. Elandsgracht, Westermarkt and the surrounding canals offer all daily amenities within walking distance.

Public transport connections are excellent, with tram and bus stops nearby. Amsterdam Central Station can be reached by bicycle in approximately 10 minutes, while Vondelpark is only a short cycle away.

Layout

Raised ground floor

The impressive entrance opens into the hallway, providing access to the front room with original windows and an attractive gas fireplace. The spacious central room is suitable as a reception or sitting room and features a discreet built-in kitchenette.

Two large doors lead to the rear room, currently used as a meeting room but equally suitable as a dining room. From here there is direct access to the garden. An open staircase connects the various floors.

First floor

At the front is a spacious room currently used as a sitting room, which could also serve as a bedroom. It provides access to a bathroom with bath, washbasin and toilet. A second bedroom is located at the rear and also has access to this bathroom.

Second floor

The front room, situated beneath the roof, features a charming French balcony and extensive built-in cabinetry. A concealed door, hidden within the cabinetry and opened via a button concealed in a book, leads to the rear section.

At the rear is a distinctive bedroom inspired by Mondrian, including a staircase leading to a mezzanine. This room also provides access to storage space and a bathroom with bath, washbasin and toilet.

From the hallway, stairs lead to the roof terrace with attractive views over the surrounding historic cityscape and Felix Meritis.

Basement

The basement is inspired by the work of Dutch artist M.C. Escher and can be accessed both internally and through its own entrance.

At the front is a generous kitchen and dining area with Italian tiles, a Boretti range cooker, dishwasher and marble worktop. A dumb waiter connects the floors.

Centrally located is the third bathroom, fitted with a shower, washbasin and toilet. The largest bedroom is situated at the rear and includes extensive built-in wardrobes and direct access to the garden.

Garden

The landscaped south-facing rear garden features a pond, two terraces, integrated lighting and an irrigation system. It can be accessed from both the raised ground floor and the basement.

Details

Approx. 278 m² of floor area Nationally listed monument Formerly the first infant school in the Netherlands Four bedrooms / five rooms suitable for use as bedrooms Three bathrooms Spacious landscaped south-facing garden Roof terrace overlooking Felix Meritis Air conditioning High-quality architectural renovation between 2011 and 2014 Freehold Parking via permit system Very suitable for combined residential and office use Transfer by mutual agreement