How to Build a Cottage Like in Amsterdam in Australia

The owners of this house are couples Hans and Ursula van Schunhoven and their two daughters spend each summer in Australia. First of all, the green continent is blessed with more sunshine than their hometown Amsterdam, and secondly, the kids are involved in furniture production and recently opened a second store here.

Hans and Ursula were looking for a house that wouldn't require major investments. This one turned out to be just the right fit. A sturdy foundation and facade were complemented by a veranda and even a scenic rooftop terrace. They didn't change the layout: the living room with kitchen, several rooms, and two bathrooms accommodated the whole family. The only thing they did was refresh the house by painting it white inside and out.

The interior is designed without complex design or bright colors. White reigns throughout, paired with wooden and wicker furniture.

It might seem like painting the walls white is the easiest solution, but it only appears that way. White can be too cold or have distinctly yellow, green, or even pink undertones. For their cottage, Hans and Ursula chose the right (pure) snow-white color.

To avoid spending too much time deciding on a color palette, the family chose a classic combination: white, grey, and black. For example, on the kitchen table, they matched black chairs with a white one. In the girls' bedroom, the bed frame was made from two colors.

Another secret to creating a white interior is to use it in combination with wooden and rattan furniture, carpets, woven details, and textiles. This makes the space cozier. The couple chose this combination for themselves.

The family also brought another Dutch tradition with them — not using curtains. To let in as much daylight as possible, curtains are rarely used in the rainy Netherlands. In this house, curtains are more of an exception than a rule.