The Sonneveld House (Huis Sonneveld) was built in the 30s of the last century for Mr.Albertus Hendrikus Sonneveld, the director of the company coffee Van Nelle in Rotterdam. Mr. Sonneveld asked the architect to create a house with lots of light and focus on functionality and simplicity. It was one of the most modern houses of that time, while today it is a museum. For all lovers of architecture, this is definitely a must-see in Rotterdam.
Bauhaus style
The design of the house is influenced by the Bauhaus style and is an example of functionalist architecture. More precisely, it was made in the style of Nieuwe Bouwen. The house is full of the latest technology of that time, such as heated towel holders, wash basin, sound system, service lift, telephones (both internal and outgoing), electric clocks, etc. It was designed for 4 persons with two crew members. On the ground floor, there is an entrance, a garage, a studio for daughters and salon rooms, living areas are on the first floor while on the second floor are bedrooms with exit to the roof terrace.
Huis Sonneveld and Brinkman and Van der Vlugt
The five points of the Le Corbusier architecture are clearly expressed in the design of this house. It’s the use of a flat roof, the facades are free from structural constraints, the horizontal window lane (ribbon window), and the house looks like it’s raised from the ground. The architects of this house were Brinkman and Van der Vlugt, the same as for the Van Nelle factory.
Almost all the furniture and lighting coming from the company Gispenc while fabrics from collection Metz & Co. It is unbelievable to see how the upper class of that time lived and what modern facilities they had in their homes.
Free audio guide
Very useful is a free audio guide that not only explains many details about the home but also brings the details of the life of the family that lived there. Throughout the guide you will find a lot of information about architecture, building technology and furniture. More details on tickets and prices can be found here.
In the museum park there are some museums worth visiting:
- Boijmans Van Beuningen
- Het Nieuwe Instituut
- Kunsthal Rotterdam
- Chabot Museum
- Natural History Museum Rotterdam
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