Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Setting up Shop at Singel 434 Amsterdam!


Singel 434 (front)

 artist impression (Mariska Meijers)
The last few months have been consumed by fulfilling another important part of my dream: finding the perfect spot for a store. The studio/showroom I occupied over the last 2 years was getting too small and my house was starting to look like a warehouse. But more importantly I kept getting this uncontrolable urge to have a window to the world. I was out on the hunt almost everyday on my bike or surfing the net, viewing properties.
Amsterdam has such a rich history. The Dutch Golden age was a time of ultimate prosperity, the Dutch East India Trading Company was one of the largest world powers. At this time gorgeous buildings were put up along the canals, the architecture lining the Herengracht and Singel were especially ornate.

Today most of these 17th century canal houses are still in tact and in one of these buildings I found my store!


I found some pictures of Singel 434 in the city's archives showing how the property and its surroundings have evolved. It still feels surreal that I am now occupying the ground floor of this 17th century monument overlooking the canal. I moved my paintings, pillow and tray designs, eclectic collection of furniture and accessories only last Thursday and we are really working hard to getting the space to work. It is becoming my second living room, a gigantic mood board and perfect setting to display my art and designs. A place to create new work and hopefully a new destination for those who love to be inspired.
Singel 434 in 1911
Singel 434 (in the'50s)
Singel 434 in the 1960s


4 comments:

  1. Congratulations on your store front. A work in progress always!!

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  2. I love the architecture Mariska, it really looks like the perfect space for your work!! Congratulations!

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  3. Mariska I am beyond happy for you and I am smiling with my whole body!
    What an amazing achievement!! I feel so inspired by you and your journey - you show us and the world that a dream is worth pursuing and that it can be reached with the right attitude and drive. I am such a huge fan and I can't wait to see you in June.
    I wish you the best of luck with this amazing platform for your work and know that you will reach the top of the rainbow! (and of course you and your beautiful art will outshine it!!)

    KRAM! (Swedish for hug!)

    Charlotta
    xxx

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  4. Incredible!! So so excited for you!! xo sarah

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