Kubota & Bachmann reforms a 1890 home into a fluid living space
Situated on the ground and first floors of a traditional 1890 Amsterdam townhome, this dual-level apartment features a classic deep, transversal layout with a private inner courtyard. Kubota & Bachmann Architects reimagined the residence to transform its deep, narrow proportions into a fluid, light-filled living environment.
The primary design challenge was bringing natural light deep into the ground-floor living area to dissolve the traditional ‘tunnel effect’ of Amsterdam townhomes. The interior relies on a clean white palette paired with natural wood flooring, tailored wooden shelving, tactile tilework, and clean-lined kitchen cabinetry. Strategically positioned mirrors reflect the courtyard windows, visually expanding the room’s openings and dissolving the boundaries between interior and exterior.
all images ©Kubota & Bachmann Architects / Toshihiro KUBOTA
Mirrors, glass, reflective curtains, and light define the residence
Two oversized light boxes are integrated into the living area, acting as artificial skylights to brighten dark zones and disrupt the linear corridor effect. The upper level houses three bedrooms and a master bathroom. While respecting the original structural layout, the design opens up the circulation areas to maximize spatial continuity.
The structural walls around the mezzanine and technical rooms were opened and replaced with ribbed glass partitions and silver reflective curtains. This strategy by Kubota & Bachmann Architects Studio allows soft, diffused daylight to filter through the spaces while preserving privacy. The bathroom features lightweight partition walls and curved corners clad in Japanese kit-kat mosaic tiles, creating a continuous, tactile surface that seamlessly wraps around the space.
the apartment occupies the ground and first floors of an 1890 Amsterdam townhome
mirrors reflect the courtyard windows to visually expand the interior openings