Every now and then, you meet a family who, from the very first moment, entrusts you with the task of turning their house into a home.

A dream for any designer. We were given complete creative freedom to design a home for this family of six, in a beautiful, leafy neighborhood in North Holland. A gift, and a joy from beginning to end.

Their wish was clear. This was to be the home the whole family would move into for one last time. A home where the children take centre stage, where friends are always welcome, and where the family’s warm southern spirit can be felt in every room. But also a home with places to retreat and enjoy a little peace and quiet.

The house naturally had a somewhat dark atmosphere. Rather than fighting against it, we embraced it and made it the defining strength of the interior.

We chose deep, warm colors: bold blue, earthy green and subtle red. Richly patterned wallpapers and textured designs alternate, creating a layered interior. Some people are hesitant about using wallpaper throughout their home, but here, one wallpaper flows seamlessly into the next. Wooden floors and a diverse mix of characterful fabrics create an interior that wraps around you the moment you step inside.

An interior in which everything simply matches can quickly become a little too safe. That is why, within all that warmth, we deliberately looked for tension. Small, daring contrasts that make you look twice and enhance the character of the house. These unexpected combination of coloring outside the lines, are what give the home its energy, humor and originality.

The kitchen is the heart of family life. A slim brass trim runs beneath the worktop. At the end of the counter, we designed a round natural stone bar table on a pedestal, with softly rounded edges and a thick, substantial top. The perfect spot for the first coffee of the day. Along the windows, a curved banquette rests on a walnut plinth, long enough to seat an entire hockey team.

In the TV room, the whole family sinks into an enormous corner sofa upholstered in soft bouclé, surrounded by Ikat curtains and colorful art. The adjoining sitting room, by contrast, is understated and serene. Adjustable built-in cabinets frame the opening between the two rooms.