Located on the 19th floor of Amsterdam’s bustling Zuidas business district, this apartment by i29 combines minimalism with contemporary living. Offering an uninterrupted view of the city’s skyline, it exemplifies modern urban sophistication while raising questions about the enduring appeal of such high-rise retreats in an ever-evolving housing landscape.
A Space Defined by Simplicity
The 300m² apartment achieves its striking presence through simplicity, opting for an open-plan layout that maximizes light and space. Custom-designed elements divide the living areas without breaking the overall flow, allowing for seamless transitions between functions. The interplay of expansive wooden surfaces, clean lines, and tactile materials creates an environment of understated elegance.
The hallmark of i29’s design philosophy is apparent from the entryway, where dark tones set the stage for the brighter, airier spaces beyond. The visual contrast enhances the sense of discovery, drawing one into the heart of the home—a spacious living area characterized by soft, neutral hues and modern lines. Despite its minimalist aesthetic, the apartment does not lack warmth, thanks to the careful balance of textures and materials.
An Elevated Take on Urban Living
The interior design leverages its elevated location, embracing the view as an integral element of the living experience. Large windows invite the city’s vibrancy into the space, while muted tones and soft lighting by Flos create an atmosphere of calm. The open living room flows into a custom-designed kitchen, showcasing both functionality and style.
In addition to the living and kitchen spaces, the apartment features two bedrooms, an office nook, two bathrooms, and two toilets. Every corner has been carefully curated to reflect a cohesive aesthetic, with furnishings from Arco, Hay, and Dum adding to the home’s luxurious yet approachable ambiance.
Questioning the Appeal of Minimalism
While this apartment encapsulates contemporary ideals of minimalism, it also invites reflection on whether such designs remain desirable in today’s world. With their focus on clean lines, open spaces, and muted palettes, minimalist homes like this one often prioritize aesthetics over practical, day-to-day functionality. Does such an emphasis on simplicity meet the needs of modern urban dwellers, or does it create spaces that can feel too curated and impersonal?
Furthermore, the apartment’s high-rise location poses another question: in an era of growing environmental concerns and shifting lifestyle preferences, how sustainable is the desire for sprawling city-center homes with expansive views? The apartment undoubtedly provides a retreat from urban chaos, but does its exclusivity align with the needs of a broader audience seeking more inclusive and environmentally conscious living solutions?
A Contemporary Ideal, but for Whom?
The apartment’s refined approach to living might not resonate with everyone. For those seeking warmth and lived-in charm, the emphasis on minimalism could feel alienating. Others might question the practicality of such pristine spaces, where the demands of family life or work-from-home setups challenge the sleek, uncluttered aesthetic.
Despite these considerations, the apartment undeniably delivers a compelling vision of contemporary luxury. It succeeds in balancing urban energy with serenity, offering a haven for those who appreciate thoughtful design. However, whether this remains a sustainable or inclusive model for city living is a question that lingers, particularly as cities like Amsterdam grapple with housing shortages and affordability issues.
i29 with this Amsterdam apartment truly spotlights the power of collaboration – Razend Bouw’s construction, Steega Interiors’ cabinetry, and the lighting design by Flos all contribute to the home’s polished look. Furnishings from Arco, Hay, and Dum further reinforce its aesthetic, demonstrating the impact of carefully chosen partnerships in achieving such a cohesive space.
This Amsterdam apartment represents the zenith of urban living as envisioned by i29—minimal, serene, and impeccably crafted. It is a space designed to impress, yet its very perfection prompts reflection. In a time when personal expression and practicality are increasingly valued in home design, the question remains: is this minimalist ideal still the pinnacle of contemporary living, or is it evolving into something more nuanced? For now, this apartment stands as a symbol of what minimalism can achieve, even as it invites deeper contemplation about the future of how we live.
Discover more of the apartment plus the floor plans in our gallery:
Location Amsterdam, Netherlands
Design: i29 – i29.nl
Photography: Ewout Huibers
Contractor: Razend Bouw
Cabinet maker: Steega Interiors
Lighting: Flos
Furniture: Arco, Hay, Dum
