Zevenlandenhuizen (Seven Country Houses) – Amsterdam, Netherlands - Atlas Obscura

Amsterdam is known for its canal house architecture, where narrow houses line the streets eventually widening out into large homes. This old way of tax evasion is now an iconic style. However, it didn’t take long for architects to craft a new form of architecture.

One such architect was Tjeerd Kuipers, most famous for a commissioned project that he completed for Sam van Eeghen. The aptly named Seven Country Houses, a row of seven houses were built to represent the architectural styles of Europe. This style now called Exotism represents a romanticized longing for what is far away. The houses are not only based on various countries’ architectural styles, but also display what they contributed to the history of architecture. The houses are now national monuments. 

Nr 20 represents Germany, where the Romantic style is used and a pointed arch is shown. 

Nr 22 represents France and is based on the style of the Loire castle.

Nr 24 represents Spain and is based on the typical Mudéjar style. 

Nr 26 represents Italy and is based on the Italian palace (Palazzo) style.

Nr 28 represents Russia and is based on a Russian Orthodox cathedral, complete with an onion dome.

Nr 30 represents the Netherlands, displaying a Renaissance style 

Nr 32 represents England, displaying the typical Cottage style.

Know Before You Go

The houses are freely accessible, but please remember that people live in them so try not to disturb them.

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September 1, 2021

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