Canal House in Amsterdam
CANAL HOUSE IN
AMSTERDAM GOES ETHNIC CHIC
Imagine strolling along Amsterdam’s picturesque streets; old bridg-
For the interior designer, the special ‘indoor garden’ kitchen and the
es create pathways through canal waters lined with charming row
bedroom are the two most exceptional rooms. Both with complete
houses. It is in one of these attractive row houses where Robin
distinctive designs and feels. The edgy kitchen room portrays a
Toetenel and Ingrid Steyrer, the design duo forming Ethnic Chic, re-
funkier vintage Hollywood vibe with faux bamboo chairs and
vamped an empty house into a warm and sophisticated space while
tropical banana leaf, hand printed wallpaper.
incorporating some statement pieces into the design. The result is a
On the other hand, the bedroom’s darker touches and rich fin-
truly stunning canal house, full of custom furniture, lavish fabrics
ishes scream vintage Hollywood boudoir. For Toetenel, “the bed-
and finishes and, quality craftsmanship.
room had a complete tone-on-tone feel with luxurious fabrics.
Ethnic Chic was originally opened in 2004 as a boutique in the heart
In the bedroom there is a stunning Koket chaise and chandelier,
of Amsterdam, selling unique and compelling home décor. After
which I love both”. Above the bed, a Vivre 2-Ring chandelier
many requests for interior design projects, Toetenel and his first
casts a sultry glow, with the light shining behind 19 genuine ag-
business partner began dabbling in interior design, and thus a de-
ate slices. The living room shape has grand ceilings and large win-
signer was born.
dows which the designers used to their advantage. Decorated in
The canal house project was worked on day and night to be com-
tones of aubergine, the fully upholstered armchairs and large sofa
pleted within the 3-week timeframe. Custom furniture was flown
certainly gives to the environment a classic and cozy touch. For
in from all over the world to add cultural soul and character to the
the twist, the designers placed two matching Burlesque consoles
space, challenging the designers to find new products and brands.
on either side of the living room’s exquisite marble fireplace.
The Amsterdam team explains “our projects are all determined by
The luxury console table’s acrobatic polished brass hoops of the
custom design, custom made furniture and the love for fabrics, sort
base are paired with exotic reptile embossed velvet, added the
furnishings and craftsmanship”, emphasizing that “without crafts-
spice the designers were looking for. The décor is simple, yet chic
manship, there’s no soul”.
with its gold details.