From Berlage to Van Eyck

Amsterdam offers a wealth of urban planning and architecture from the pre- and post-war periods. The southern neighborhoods in particular serve as an open-air museum of modern architecture, showcasing the evolution of urban planning and design from the early 20th century to the post-war era. Known for its expressive and decorative architecture, the Amsterdam School defined much of their early 20th-century housing and public spaces. Emerging in the 1930s, Functionalism emphasized simplicity, efficiency, and the use of modern materials. In the post-war period, Dutch architecture shifted toward Structuralism, focusing on human-centered design and modular spatial concepts.

This tour provides an in-depth exploration of key architectural movements, including the Amsterdam School, Functionalism, and Structuralism, highlighting their influence on the city’s development and providing insights into their lasting influence on architecture and design.

Previous slide

Next slide

Tour Highlights: From Berlage to Van Eyck

Housing Compound De Dageraad (Michel de Klerk and Piet Kramer, 1920)
An iconic example of Amsterdam School design, featuring intricate brickwork and sculptural forms.
Housing Block by Margaret Kropholler (1923)
One of the first female architects in the Netherlands, Kropholler brought a distinctive touch to the Amsterdam School style.
Housing Block by Piet Zanstra (1934)
An example of early Functionalist housing in the city
Drive-In Houses by Willem van Tijen, Mart Stam, Huig Maaskant, and Lotte Stam-Beese (1937)
Forward-thinking housing concept designed for modern urban living
Open-Air School by Jan Duiker (1938)
Pioneering school building, emphasizing light, air, and outdoor integration in educational spaces
Orphanage by Aldo van Eyck (1960)
Groundbreaking design that exemplifies the principles of interconnected spaces and community focus in Structuralism
Apollo Schools by Herman Hertzberger (1983)
Legendary school buildings, emphasizing adaptable spaces for learning and interaction