A charming little house. That’s the Polderhuis. It stands proudly on Rustenburgerstraat in Amsterdam’s De Pijp. This unassuming building has a rich and fascinating history.
Built in 1865 it was once surrounded by gardens and fields. The area was then part of Nieuwer-Amstel a separate municipality. The Polderhuis was more than just a house. It served as a meeting place for the polder’s governing body. This is where important decisions were made. Think of it as a mini town hall.
Imagine the scene. Polder officials gathered to discuss drainage and land use. They made plans for the growing community. The house even served as a small inn. This means that it also hosted locals and travelers. It provided shelter and a social hub.
Bram Bos a young student. He moved into the Polderhuis in 1988. He discovered its charm and its stories. Years passed. The house fell into disrepair. A Mercedes even crashed into its facade. The roof started to collapse. But its spirit was undeterred.
Then came Jeltsje Kroes. She recognized the potential of this decaying jewel. Along with Bram and friends. They initiated the first phase of renovation. They restored the exterior. Bram also published a book on the Polderhuis’s history. This eventually led to it being listed as a municipal monument in 2000.
The Polderhuis faced further challenges. It was almost lost to a developer. Bram however had a change of heart. He decided to buy it himself. In a remarkable turn of events. He did. He became the owner in 2002.
From 2002 to 2015. Extensive renovations took place. This included the use of sustainable methods. The Polderhuis achieved a near-A++ energy label. It is now a testament to its history. It is a symbol of perseverance and green renovation. My daughter Jeanne and a distant relative of the first stone layer. They placed the final stone. The restoration was finally complete.
So stand here with me. Marvel at the Polderhuis. A small house with a big story. A symbol of Amsterdam’s past. It is a shining example of sustainable living. A building that refuses to be forgotten. It continues to inspire and fascinate.