Architecture in the Netherlands – From its Roots to the Present

The Netherlands is well known for its windmills, tulips, and cheese, but one of its most defining traits is its architectural heritage. This country has produced some of the most influential and iconic buildings in all of Europe, from the world renowned Rijksmuseum and Rietveld Schröder House to the awe-inspiring windmills located in Kinderdijk. But what are the origins of Dutch architecture and how has it evolved to its present state?

The history of architecture in the Netherlands dates back to the Medieval Ages. During this period, a homogenous style emerged and spread throughout the country which was heavily influenced by the Gothic and Romanesque styles of northern Europe. This style, known as Dutch Renaissance architecture commonly included towers, high gables, and stepped gables. By combining elements of the Renaissance period with traditional Dutch designs, the country's architecture developed in its own unique direction, allowing it to stand out amongst other European countries.

Beginning in the 17th century, Amsterdam underwent a period of great wealth and prosperity, with the East India Company and the Dutch East India Company expanding their power and influence to the Dutch colonies. This prosperity and the rise of the bourgeoisie lead to a period of great wealth and immense building activity, most notably in Amsterdam and The Hague. During this period, a style that became known as 'Dutch Classicism' emerged. This style was defined by its grand façades, traditional Dutch ornamentation, and its use of red brick.

In the early twentieth century, the country experienced a more modern turn in its architecture with the development of the Amsterdam School. This style focussed on the use of brick, which had been popularised by Dutch Classicism and combined it with the more modern Expressionist and Art Nouveau styles. This led to the development of the expressionist brick architecture which is unique to the Netherlands. This style could be seen in many of the apartment blocks and workers’ housing constructed in this period, and is most clearly exemplified in the iconic Amsterdam School museum.

More recently, the country has been home to cutting edge postmodern architecture. This style is best exemplified by the ‘floating houses’ located in Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, designed by architect Marcel Schot. These houses have become an iconic symbol of the city’s modern architecture, with their open plan layouts and steel constructions.
Nicholas Swanson @ Unsplash

From its humble beginnings in the Medieval period up to its present state, the Netherlands has produced some of the most iconic, inventive and unique architecture in Europe. With each period of stylistic evolution, the country's architectural heritage has become more diverse and intricate, and it is now recognised across the world for its importance and influence.
Johannes Plenio @ Unsplash