Luxurious Interiors and Natural Materials in A Historic City Villa
Tucked away behind monumental trees on nearly 1.5 hectares of park-like land lies an iconic city villa with the soul of a country estate. Originally built in 1907 as a stately country house, the property has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious residence of international allure.
The comprehensive renovation, completed in 2021, balanced deep respect for the past with contemporary craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and timeless design.
The estate unfolds as an elegant ensemble: the main villa, a former coach house, and a charming gardener’s cottage. Each building retains its own character, yet together they form a harmonious architectural composition set within a landscape of ancient trees, winding paths, and quiet garden spaces.
The interiors were designed by renowned Dutch designer Osiris Hertman, known for blending historical architecture with bold contemporary elements. His approach begins not with sketches but with extensive conversations with the homeowners, exploring how they truly want to live.
Hertman connected the main house and outbuildings through modern corridors that intentionally contrast the original architecture, creating visual tension between past and present. Within this framework, he introduced generous open spaces that allow the house to host both intimate family moments and lively gatherings with ease.
Throughout the home, every detail has been carefully considered: custom marble, subtle light lines, handcrafted surfaces, and unexpected textures. The result is a world where elegance, atmosphere, and exceptional quality coexist effortlessly.
One of the defining characteristics of the home is the use of authentic, tactile materials. Leather, epoxy, natural stone, aged wood, and copper appear throughout the interiors, alongside an extraordinary collection of handcrafted elements sourced from across the world.
Ceiling wood was brought from Austria, fabrics from Italy and India, rugs from Persia, tiles from Portugal and China, and lamps handmade in Indonesia. These pieces celebrate imperfection and individuality.
The main living area revolves around a large dining table that seats up to fourteen guests. More than a place for formal dinners, the table is designed to accommodate daily life.
The kitchen is far from conventional. Rather than feeling like a traditional cooking space, it has the atmosphere of an art-filled living room.
A wall clad in soft pink leather contrasts with ceramic tiles from Portugal, while a striking artwork by Bram Reijnders, a sculptural Mickey Mouse composed of countless miniature Mickey figures, anchors the space with a playful touch.
Dutch craftsmanship also plays an important role. Custom steel doors by De Rooij were given a unique finish designed by Hertman, while collaborations with respected suppliers such as Formani and Jee-o bring precision and refinement to every element.
The design process itself is highly collaborative. Once the concept is developed, Hertman produces a comprehensive design book, a three-dimensional walkthrough of the entire house. This document is shared with contractors and artisans so every craftsperson understands the broader vision.
The journey to the upper floors begins on leather-covered stairs, a material that continues seamlessly across the floors of the bedrooms and corridors.
The leather has been carefully polished with bronze wax by a craftsman, producing a soft sheen and an incredibly comfortable surface underfoot. With underfloor heating installed beneath it, walking barefoot becomes an everyday pleasure.
At the top of the house lies the spectacular master suite, designed as an open, flowing space that combines a sleeping area, a walk-in wardrobe, and a spa-like bathroom. The tactile richness of leather, stone, and warm lighting creates a private sanctuary within the home.
Even the wet areas embody the same philosophy of honest materials. Basins carved from petrified wood and natural stone surfaces reveal patterns shaped by time and geology.
Outside, the estate continues to impress. The grounds resemble a small private park, filled with mature trees and peaceful walking paths.
Several terraces surround the villa, providing different settings throughout the day, from sunny breakfast spots to shaded evening lounges. A heated outdoor swimming pool forms the centerpiece of the garden, accompanied by a luxurious garden house complete with a bar
The house is listed for €7,650,000 at Honders & Alting Makelaars.