CANAL HOUSE
IN AMSTERDAM GOES ETHNIC CHIC
Imagine strolling along Amsterdam’s picturesque streets; old bridg-
es create pathways through canal waters lined with charming row
houses. It is in one of these attractive row houses where Robin
Toetenel and Ingrid Steyrer, the design duo forming Ethnic Chic, re-
vamped an empty house into a warm and sophisticated space while
incorporating some statement pieces into the design. The result is a
truly stunning canal house, full of custom furniture, lavish fabrics
and finishes and, quality craftsmanship.
Ethnic Chic was originally opened in 2004 as a boutique in the heart
of Amsterdam, selling unique and compelling home décor. After
many requests for interior design projects, Toetenel and his first
business partner began dabbling in interior design, and thus a de-
signer was born.
The canal house project was worked on day and night to be com-
pleted within the 3-week timeframe. Custom furniture was flown
in from all over the world to add cultural soul and character to the
space, challenging the designers to find new products and brands.
The Amsterdam team explains “our projects are all determined by
custom design, custom made furniture and the love for fabrics, sort
furnishings and craftsmanship”, emphasizing that “without crafts-
manship, there’s no soul”.
For the interior designer, the special ‘indoor garden’ kitchen and the
bedroom are the two most exceptional rooms. Both with complete
distinctive designs and feels. The edgy kitchen room portrays a
funkier vintage Hollywood vibe with faux bamboo chairs and
tropical banana leaf, hand printed wallpaper.
On the other hand, the bedroom’s darker touches and rich fin-
ishes scream vintage Hollywood boudoir. For Toetenel, “the bed-
room had a complete tone-on-tone feel with luxurious fabrics.
In the bedroom there is a stunning Koket chaise and chandelier,
which I love both”. Above the bed, a Vivre 2-Ring chandelier
casts a sultry glow, with the light shining behind 19 genuine ag-
ate slices. The living room shape has grand ceilings and large win-
dows which the designers used to their advantage. Decorated in
tones of aubergine, the fully upholstered armchairs and large sofa
certainly gives to the environment a classic and cozy touch. For
the twist, the designers placed two matching Burlesque consoles
on either side of the living room’s exquisite marble fireplace.
The luxury console table’s acrobatic polished brass hoops of the
base are paired with exotic reptile embossed velvet, added the
spice the designers were looking for. The décor is simple, yet chic
with its gold details.
Canal House in Amsterdam