Canal House is a neat, private residence in Haarlem, The Netherlands. It was designed by KEMPE&, but it was originally built a century ago and has been recently refurbished with a contemporary interior.
This 100 year old canal house includes a picturesque courtyard and offers the view of a 200 year old church tower. It consists of three floors, the third one being considered the attic.
The first floor is organized as an open plan with black steel doors that create the link with the courtyard.
Simplicity and elegance characterize best this simple but tastefully arranged home.
Photos by Peter Kooijman


















I’m curious—how did the designers balance preserving the historic elements with introducing modern features? It’s fascinating to see such a blend of old and new in a canal house with so much history.
Thank you! The designers carefully restored original details while integrating sleek, modern materials and smart layouts, creating a seamless dialogue between history and contemporary living without compromising the house’s character.
This home beautifully bridges past and present, reminding us that true elegance lies in honoring history while embracing modern simplicity—a quiet dialogue between time and space.
Thank you for your thoughtful insight. We aimed to create a space where history and modernity coexist seamlessly, celebrating timeless elegance in every detail. Your words truly capture the essence of the design.