Apartment 163 Amsterdam | Renovation by Studio Vahid

This canal-side apartment in central Amsterdam has been completely redesigned by Studio Vahid to create a calm and contemporary home that feels both refined and personal. The design celebrates Amsterdam’s natural light and architectural charm while introducing a modern sense of comfort through materiality, proportion, and texture. Every space was reconsidered — not only for how it looks, but for how it feels to live in. The living room, overlooking the historic canal houses, forms the heart of the apartment. Large windows invite in soft daylight that flows through layers of linen curtains, creating a serene backdrop for everyday life. A neutral palette of cream, sand, and warm oak establishes an atmosphere of quiet luxury. The furniture pieces are sculptural yet understated — a travertine dining table, marble coffee tables, and a custom sideboard with a woven-wood texture — all contributing to a tactile, handcrafted character. The lighting, both natural and artificial, is designed to enhance depth and intimacy. Subtle ceiling fixtures and warm floor lamps bring focus to key textures and artworks throughout the home. The spatial layout was simplified to strengthen the visual connection between rooms. The open plan now allows the dining area and living room to merge effortlessly, encouraging slow transitions and social flow. Art plays an essential role in the design: bold geometric compositions and abstract paintings add rhythm and contrast against the soft architecture. Each piece was selected to complement the home’s palette while introducing moments of color and energy. In the private areas, a sense of calm continuity continues. The bedroom features a clean, modern layout with warm wooden tones, tactile bedding, and carefully chosen textiles that soften the geometry of the space. Natural light filters through sheer curtains, giving the room a peaceful, timeless quality. Subtle accent colors — deep teal and terracotta — bring warmth and individuality without disturbing the overall serenity. The bathroom follows the same principle of simplicity and balance. Stone basins, minimal black fixtures, and seamless surfaces give it a sculptural presence while maintaining a feeling of lightness. The freestanding bath is framed by soft, curved walls, creating a sanctuary-like atmosphere. Every detail — from the proportion of the mirrors to the placement of each light — is designed to achieve harmony between function and form. Studio Vahid approached the project with a clear philosophy: design should evoke emotion through restraint. Rather than adding decoration, the focus was on removing visual noise — allowing light, texture, and craftsmanship to define the experience of the space. The use of authentic materials such as marble, travertine, linen, and oak ensures the apartment feels grounded and enduring. This renovation represents a contemporary interpretation of Amsterdam’s residential architecture, blending the city’s historical character with a distinctly modern lifestyle. The result is a home that feels effortless, tactile, and deeply human — a space that reflects Studio Vahid’s ongoing commitment to creating interiors that are as practical as they are poetic.