Zevenlandenhuizen
An architectural gem in the south of Amsterdam
Nestled in the leafy, exclusive neighbourhood of Amsterdam Zuid (South), the Zevenlandenhuizen are a triumph of 19th-century architectural design and imagination, and a testament to the period’s fascination with everything exotic and far away. This row of seven delightful houses, each representing the architectural style of a different European country, were built by architect Tjeerd Kuipers in 1894, to a commission by wealthy and well-travelled politician Samuel van Eeghen. The houses are located on the Roemer Visscherstraat next to the Vondelpark, where many of Amsterdam’s rich and powerful kept large homes around that time.
Seven nations in seven houses
The seven distinct houses represent a whirlwind tour of Europe through architectural styles. From the Renaissance architecture of the Loire Valley replicated in the French house, to the Moorish influences of the Spanish home, and the neo-classic Italian palazzo, each house contrasts with the next to create a visual feast of pleasingly mismatched styles. Other countries represented are England – now a hotel – with its arts and crafts influences, an imposing, Kremlin-style Russian house, and a romantic, turreted vision of Germany. And of course, the Dutch Renaissance style is also showcased in the Holland house. In case you struggle to work out which house is which, the names of the countries are also displayed above their front doors.
In the neighbourhood
The Roemer Visscherstraat leads into Amsterdam’s most famous and largest park, Vondelpark, which is a delight to visit in any season. Nearby you’ll find the imposing landmarks of Museumplein, home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum, plus Amsterdam’s beautiful concert hall, the Royal Concertgebouw. Fashion lovers can get their retail fix in the designer boutiques lining Amsterdam’s most exclusive shopping street, the P.C. Hooftstraat, which is located just through the park, across from the Zevenlandenhuizen.
View our accommodation tips in this area
Immerse yourself in the Zevenlandenhuizen by actually staying in one of the seven houses at the Quentin England – a simple two-star hotel located in the English house. Or enjoy some luxury at the 5-star Conservatorium Hotel on well-heeled Van Baerlestraat, adjoining Museumplein. There is also a rich selection of small hotels located in the beautiful 19th-century villas surrounding the Vondelpark.