Danish kitchen design in a Dutch manor house
Nancy and Peter acquired Villa Swaluwenduyne on the eve of the 2020 lockdown. It was not until May 2023 that they commenced the meticulous restoration and refinement of the distinguished 1905 residence. The result is a graceful dialogue between historic character and contemporary living – defined by architectural integrity, quiet luxury and enduring elegance.
Kitchen model
Copenhagen
Materials
Walnut and Glacier White
Situated almost equidistant between Amsterdam and the Dutch coastline lies the village of Overveen. Along a tranquil, tree-lined avenue stands the stately Villa Swaluwenduyne, a residence of considerable heritage and presence.
In 2023, the 268 sq m villa underwent an extensive yet sympathetic renovation in collaboration with the Amsterdam-based architectural practice Buro van Stigt.
Eight months later, the family returned to an energy-optimised home where original features have been respectfully reinstated. The grand fireplace, timber panelling and exposed ceiling beams were carefully recreated, the original terrazzo floors restored, and the house discreetly upgraded for modern life with underfloor heating, solar panels and high-performance glazing.
A refined fusion of Scandinavian and Brazilian modernism
The interior aesthetic balances Scandinavian minimalism and functionality with deeper tones, organic silhouettes and natural materials inspired by Brazilian modernism.
“Our choices must feel both contemporary and timeless, crafted to the highest standard, preferably in natural materials – and with a distinct point of difference,” Nancy explains.
By the fireplace sits the iconic Diz lounge chair, designed in the 1950s by Brazilian designer Sergio Rodrigues – a sculptural statement that lends warmth and character to the room.
A handcrafted Danish kitchen
A sympathetic extension, designed in keeping with the villa’s classical architecture, allowed for a more generous and highly functional kitchen centred around a large kitchen island.
Expansive glazing floods the kitchen and dining space with natural light and opens directly onto the garden.
In addition to Nancy and Peter, the household includes a teenage child still living at home and two white Golden Retrievers. Their eldest daughter has recently flown the nest and is now studying in Utrecht.
The kitchen has become the natural heart of the home – from morning coffee and everyday dining to elegant evenings spent entertaining. There is particular pleasure in sitting at the island with an Aperol in hand as supper is prepared. The refined CH56 bar stool is by Carl Hansen & Søn.
The bespoke walnut kitchen belongs to the Copenhagen collection by uno form. The Roma Imperiale quartzite worktop features distinctive veining in monochromatic earth tones, harmonising beautifully with the restored terrazzo flooring.
“We chose a kitchen from uno form because it is both modern and timeless – and unlike anything we encountered in the Netherlands."
The design-protected frame beneath the kitchen island creates a sense of visual lightness, allowing the floor to remain visible.
The dovetailed drawers in solid walnut represent craftsmanship at its most refined, and the depth of tone complements the dark oak flooring in the sitting room perfectly,” Nancy notes.
The Gaggenau appliances are from the 200 series. The hob and extractor are controlled via illuminated black knobs integrated into the solid walnut front – an understated yet highly considered detail.
The tap from Quooker enhances everyday ease, delivering boiling water instantly for tea, pasta or blanching vegetables.
About this kitchen
Who?
Nancy, Peter and their teenage son, who still resides at home
Where?
Overveen, the Netherlands
