In 2022 our design studio in Amsterdam was commissioned to transform a family home in Zwaag into a modern place of escapism. The aim was to create a calm yet soulful interior, inspired by the themes of reflection and forcibility. The design had to reflect the owners’ diverging taste in design—merging a feminine and masculine vision—while remaining suitable for the everyday life of a family with three children. This duality allowed for the creation of unique areas aligned with the family’s habits and interests, infused with a sense of spaciousness and lightness throughout.

The informal dining area, located next to the kitchen, was designed as a welcoming space where the family can gather, unwind, and create lasting memories. Bathed in soft natural light reflected from the window onto the ceiling, the space feels airy and grounded at once. A bespoke asymmetrical banquette with round, sculptural edges introduces femininity and fluidity, contrasting beautifully with the linearity of the wooden wall panels. The upholstered seating is made with a cosy, easy-to-clean fabric—ideal for daily use in a lively household. Together with the natural materials and earthy tones, the composition of circular and geometric shapes offers a tactile and harmonious balance that celebrates both comfort and aesthetics.

Extending across the open-plan layout, the kitchen and adjacent dining area capture the project’s essence: spaciousness, framed views, and thoughtful composition. A tall, curved wooden partition introduces rhythm and verticality while retaining warmth—an architectural gesture that grounds the room and enhances flow. A focal point within this layout is the Arebescato Orobico marble kitchen island, designed with soft edges to evoke a sense of theatre and everyday sociability. The marble’s distinctive veining continues across the countertop and the dining table, tying the areas together with a sculptural elegance that is both bold and refined.

The interplay of natural materials ensures visual and spatial continuity. The smoked oak flooring extends onto the ceiling, while the quarter-sawn oak cabinetry returns in the surrounding walls—its vertical lines adding structure and dynamism. Above the cabinets, a dark recess introduces horizontal contrast and visual depth. Together, these elements create a tactile, layered interior that serves the functional needs of a family of five, while expressing a timeless and curated design language.