A Dutch Family’s Resourceful Addition Makes Room for Three Generations
The new space allows three generations to enjoy the coastal property north of Amsterdam.
Three years ago, interior designer Ayla Geest and her partner, Jordie Kuin—with their two French bulldogs, Bullie and Cooper, in tow—were searching outside Amsterdam for a new house. At the same time, Ayla’s parents, Fred and Els, wanted to downsize. The family decided to pool their resources and look for a place together where each couple would have their own space.
In a quiet coastal town north of Amsterdam, Ayla Geest and Jordie Kuin renovated a house for Ayla’s parents while designing a private extension for themselves.
Photo by Anke Leunissen
"We found this house that was empty and almost derelict," Ayla says, "but the location was idyllic, so green and close to the sea. And we knew the municipality would allow us to build it out." The family came up with a plan to expand the house into the back garden—though a generous amount of green space remains.
Photo by Anke Leunissen
The couples each have their own front door, with Ayla and Jordie living in the new section and Ayla’s parents in the pre-existing house. What was once the rear facade of the house is now the exposed brick wall of Ayla and Jordie’s living room.
The brick rear facade of the existing structure became the living room wall of the younger couple’s new space. The bench is by Cuun for House Doctor and the yellow side table is by Zuiver. A rug from Rozenkelim adds additional color to the space.
Photo by Anke Leunissen
See the full story on Dwell.com: A Dutch Family’s Resourceful Addition Makes Room for Three Generations
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