Rotterdam is the opposite of Amsterdam: newly built, open-plan, with floor-to-ceiling glazing and elevators that can accommodate a sofa. The task thus shifts from getting furniture in to structuring the space.
Open Floor Plans Require Zones
Where there are no walls, the furnishings must create the rooms. Three elements reliably achieve this: a large rug that frames the seating area and whose edge marks the zone boundary, a sofa with its back to the dining area instead of against the wall, and a floor lamp as a vertical accent in the center of the room. The size of the rug is important: It should accommodate at least the front legs of all seating furniture, otherwise the group will appear to float.
Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
Lots of glass means plenty of light and little wall space. This often eliminates classic solutions like a console with a mirror, and the impact must come from the furniture itself. At the same time, solar radiation is high: textiles exposed to direct light for extended periods will fade, and dark leather seating surfaces will become hot in summer. Textile sun protection solves both issues.
Harbor Climate
Rotterdam is located on the Maas River; the air is humid and saltier than inland. For balconies and roof terraces, this means the same material considerations as on the coast: coated metals, corrosion-resistant connections, and quick-drying upholstery, see stainless steel.
Delivery is Not an Issue Here
New buildings have freight elevators, wide corridors, and usually a loading zone. Large, assembled pieces are therefore possible in Rotterdam where they would fail in Amsterdam. The only regular stumbling block is registration with building management, which is required in many towers and sets a time window.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you structure an open living space?
With a sufficiently large rug, a sofa placed freely in the room, and a vertical accent such as a floor lamp. The rug should accommodate at least the front legs of all seating furniture.
What should be considered with floor-to-ceiling windows?
There is little wall space and a lot of direct sun. Textiles fade, dark leather gets hot. Textile sun protection solves both problems.
Are large furniture pieces a problem in new Rotterdam buildings?
Rarely. Freight elevators and wide corridors allow for assembled pieces. Usually, only the time slot with building management needs to be arranged.
Consultation by an Authorized Dealer
Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory, deliver throughout Europe, and provide advice on selection, dimensions, and delivery times. Inquiries can be sent to info@casa-luxury.de.
Luxury Furniture for Rotterdam: New Construction, Light, and Openness: Models from the Collection
A selection from the areas discussed on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Further in the guide: Luxury Furniture Overview · Amsterdam · Luxembourg · Mid Century