When Dutch couple Diaan and Carlo first moved into their two-story house, they were greeted by an overwhelming sea of white. The entire space was painted in stark white tones that created a cold, unwelcoming atmosphere despite the home's impressive architectural features. Recognizing the need for a dramatic transformation, the couple reached out to Dutch lifestyle magazine VT Wonen, which enlisted renowned stylist Fietje Bruijn to tackle the challenging renovation project.
The waterfront property, located in Schiedam near Rotterdam, boasted impressive structural elements including soaring 5-meter-high ceilings and abundant natural light streaming through large windows. However, these positive features were overshadowed by the sterile white palette that dominated every surface. The expansive space lacked visual cohesion and felt more like a clinical environment than a comfortable family home, prompting the need for a comprehensive design overhaul.
Bruijn approached the transformation by establishing a warm, light sandy color as the foundation for the entire redesign. This soft, enveloping base tone was carefully applied throughout the home, creating visual continuity from the ground floor all the way up to the mezzanine level. The designer's strategic use of this neutral yet warm palette immediately began to counteract the previously cold atmosphere that had characterized the space.
A key element in unifying the multi-level home was the introduction of distinctive Eijffinger wallpaper, which draws its inspiration from the famous painting 'Het Puttertje' (The Goldfinch) by Dutch Golden Age master Carel Fabritius. This artistic wallpaper serves as a visual thread that connects the different levels of the house while adding cultural sophistication and visual interest to the previously bland walls. The choice to reference this celebrated artwork demonstrates Bruijn's commitment to incorporating meaningful design elements that reflect Dutch artistic heritage.
One of the most striking additions to the transformed space is a suspended bioethanol fireplace that immediately captures visitors' attention upon entering the home. This modern sculptural element serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing warmth while acting as a stunning focal point that anchors the living area. The fireplace's contemporary design perfectly complements the home's updated color scheme and adds an element of luxury to the space.
The completed transformation has resulted in a harmonious living environment that successfully balances warmth with sophistication. The carefully selected warm yet neutral color palette has effectively eliminated the previous cold atmosphere, creating instead a soothing and well-structured space that feels both welcoming and refined. The strategic use of color, combined with thoughtful design elements, has turned what was once a soulless white box into a home that truly reflects the personality and lifestyle of its inhabitants.
