The Dutch housing market is unique, and with that uniqueness come specific challenges. The charm of an old canal house or a narrow row home is undeniable, but the layout can often leave something to be desired. At Askitect, we see the consequences of common layout mistakes every day. Here are five typical problems we encounter and how an architect can help you solve them.

Mistake 1: The Dining Room Is Just a Passageway

In many Dutch 'doorzonwoningen' (sun-through houses), the dining room is no longer a cozy place to eat, but an unavoidable thoroughfare. Whether it’s the path from the kitchen to the garden or from the hallway to the living room, the result is the same: a constant flow of traffic that makes a quiet meal impossible. An architect can analyze the flow in your home and suggest creative solutions, such as repositioning the kitchen or creating a clever new entryway, to make your dining area the social heart of your house once again.

Mistake 2: The Front Door Opens Directly into the Living Room

You know the situation: you open the front door and step directly into the living room. No vestibule, no hallway, no place to hang your coat. This isn't just a practical problem (hello, cold feet in winter!), it also lacks the necessary separation between outside and inside. It's a common issue in city apartments. We can explore the possibilities of creating a functional entryway, even in a small space, with clever storage solutions that retain heat and offer a warm welcome.

Mistake 3: The 'Lost' Back of the House

Especially in terraced houses and older homes, the back of the house, which faces the garden, is often not used optimally. Think of a small, dark scullery that blocks a direct connection to the outside, or a wall where a beautiful glass facade could have been. This layout often prevents natural light from entering and obstructs the path to the garden, which is a shame in a country where every sunbeam counts. An architect can help transform this area through smart adjustments, like opening up walls, installing large sliding glass doors, or repositioning functions to create more light and a better connection with the outdoors.

Mistake 4: Lack of Privacy Due to Poorly Placed Toilets and Bedrooms

A toilet that opens directly into the living room or a bathroom without a window can be a major source of annoyance. In typical, narrow Dutch buildings, privacy is often a luxury. An architect is trained to think in logical zones. We can look at your home's floor plan and suggest creating a smart routing or moving doors and walls to establish a clear separation between private and living spaces.

Mistake 5: Unused Square Meters

Do you think your home is too small for an extra bedroom or a home office? Many homes have unused square meters in empty hallways, awkward corners, or in the depth of the house. With a fresh perspective, we can uncover the hidden potential of your home and show you how to use every inch of that valuable space. Whether it's a built-in closet, a workspace under the stairs, or an entirely new room, we make sure every square meter counts.

Don't let these common mistakes keep you from your dream home. Sometimes, a small change with a big impact is the only step you need. For a quick, affordable architectural check of your home, visit Askitect.nl and find out what's possible.

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