Step Inside Anton Corbijn’s Cinematic Amsterdam Canal House

On a hushed stretch of Amsterdam’s most storied canal, the Prinsengracht, where the water lies open and uninterrupted by houseboats, sits a residence as composed and cinematic as the work of its owner: director and photographer Anton Corbijn.

This extraordinary three-level home, spanning 266 square meters, forms part of a fully renovated canal house that may also be purchased in its entirety (the upper apartments are also owned by Corbijn), a rare opportunity to own a complete piece of Amsterdam heritage.

From the outset, it is clear that no expense or effort was spared in transforming this home. The renovation combined the highest-quality materials with reclaimed architectural elements and antiques.

The restored grandeur befitting a classic canal house is layered in a distinctly international sensibility, with elements from Los Angeles, Nairobi, London, and Paris woven seamlessly into Amsterdam’s historic fabric.

Entry is via a stately marble-finished hall secured by a double security door. Residents of the upper apartments may take the elevator or stairs, while the lift also provides access to the first floor of this duplex residence.

The heart of the residence unfolds on the canal level, where ceilings soar to over 5 meters, an architectural feature unique to classic canal houses.

At the rear of this level lies the kitchen-diner and sitting area, opening through French doors onto a spacious terrace.

Designed specifically for this home, the custom-built kitchen is equipped for serious culinary enthusiasts. Luxury appliances include brands such as Sub-Zero and Wolf, along with a filtered-water tap, a boiling-water tap, a wine cooler, a steam oven, and a plate warmer.

This entire floor features an antique wooden floor, adding warmth, texture, and historic ambiance to the open-plan space.

Towering windows frame unobstructed water views, bathing the space in the soft, shifting light that has drawn artists to Amsterdam for centuries.

Classic shutters, richly textured wallpaper, and a fireplace crowned with an antique mantelpiece create an atmosphere of warmth and refinement.

Ascending to the first floor, a large living room unfolds with a trio of impressive canal-facing windows. At the rear, a wide balcony extends the living space outdoors.

The sitting room is decorated with the colorful Tarangire wallpaper by Pierrre Frey.

This level is distinguished by extraordinary reclaimed wooden flooring sourced from an old French château, reinforcing the home’s commitment to unique and storied materials. As throughout the residence, every detail has been custom-made.

The warm parquet floor is paired with a rich purpleish-brown shade on the walls, enhancing the warm atmosphere.

At the back of the plan, you’ll find a fantastic work area with a large table, built-in bookshelves, and another gorgeous wooden bookcase with glass doors.

A cleverly integrated kitchenette with a copper countertop ensures that refreshments are always within reach.

The lower ground floor houses two bedrooms, each with its own bespoke bathroom, a separate laundry room, and an expansive custom wardrobe. Every element has been tailored in classic materials while incorporating modern comforts.

The master bedroom is decorated with the Happy Monkey wallpaper by Pierre Frey.

The principal suite and its large bathroom open directly onto a completely private courtyard patio. Here, indoor and outdoor living merge, offering a tranquil space to unwind.

The main bathroom is a study in character and craftsmanship: a freestanding copper bathtub, double-sink vanity, toilet, and carefully selected finishes, including custom wallpaper and wooden flooring.

An antique dressing table adds a final note of timeless elegance.

Set on a peaceful stretch of the Prinsengracht, between the Leidsegracht and the Nine Streets, this extraordinary canal house by Anton Corbijn is also located moments from fine hotels (such as the newly renovated Rosewood Hotel and hotel Andaz), boutiques, and restaurants.

The house is listed for sale at Sotheby’s.