Dutch Modernism is a movement in architecture and design emerged in the early 20th century. It had a significant impact on the visual landscape of the Netherlands. From the stunning buildings of the Amsterdamse School to the emphasis on traditional craftsmanship in the Bossche School. Dutch Modernism was a vibrant and dynamic movement that embraced a range of styles and approaches.
The Bossche School: A Focus on Craftsmanship
The Bossche School was a movement that emerged in the 1910s and 1920s. It centered around the Dutch city of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. This movement was known for its emphasis on craftsmanship and traditional techniques. Also, it focused on incorporating regional materials and styles into modern designs. Iconic architect and designer Dom Hans van der Laan is considered the founder of this movement. You can read more about his work in our earlier blog post!
The Amsterdamse School: Embracing Expressionism
The Amsterdamse School, on the other hand, was a movement that emerged in the early 20th century in Amsterdam. This movement was characterized by its embrace of expressionism and a departure from traditional architectural forms. Key features of Amsterdamse School buildings include asymmetrical facades, rounded shapes, and decorative elements such as ornate brickwork and stained glass. Architects associated with the Amsterdamse School include Michel de Klerk and Piet Kramer.
Gerrit Rietveld: A Pioneer of Modern Furniture Design
One of the most significant figures in Dutch Modernism is Gerrit Rietveld, a designer and architect who played a key role in the De Stijl movement. Rietveld was known for his minimalist approach to design. Consequently emphasizing on simple shapes and primary colors. For example, his most famous work is likely the Red and Blue Chair.This was designed in 1917 and is now considered an icon of modern furniture design.
Willem Dijsselhof: A Multitalented Designer
Another important figure in Dutch Modernism is Willem Dijsselhof, who worked across a range of mediums including furniture design. Dijsselhof was a key member of the Arts and Crafts movement in the Netherlands, which emphasized the importance of handmade goods and traditional craftsmanship. His work is characterized by its intricate patterns and attention to detail.
In conclusion, Dutch Modernism is a fascinating movement that encompasses a range of styles and approaches to design. From the emphasis on craftsmanship in the Bossche School to the expressionist forms of the Amsterdamse School, this movement has had a lasting impact on Dutch architecture and design. The work of designers such as Gerrit Rietveld and Willem Dijsselhof continue to inspire and influence modern designers today.
Dom Hans Van der Laan was a Dutch Benedictine monk who became an architect and designer in the mid-20th century. Born in 1904 in the Netherlands, Van der Laan grew up in a family of architects and builders, which would later influence his career as an architect and designer.
Early Carreer
Van der Laan eventually became a member of the Benedictine monastery in Vaals, in the south of the Netherlands. He began to incorporate his ideas about architecture and design into the monastery’s buildings. His work soon became influential in the Bossche School movement!
Van der Laan became interested in the architectural style known as the Bossche School. This movement uses of traditional materials and forms, as well as its emphasis on functionality and simplicity. He was particularly drawn to the work of architect Jan de Jong. De Jong was a leading figure in the Bossche School movement.
The Plastic Number
Van der Laan’s approach to architecture and design was based on a system of proportion and measurement. It is called the “plastic number.” He believed that this was an ideal proportion for creating harmonious and balanced designs while emphasizing functionality and simplicity.
This proportion can be applied to a wide range of design elements. From the overall shape of a building to the size of individual components like windows and doors. He saw it as a way to balance the competing demands of function and aesthetics. This allowed architects and designers to create structures that were both beautiful and functional.
In addition to the plastic number, van der Laan also developed a system of measurement called the “module,”. This is a standard unit of measurement based on the plastic number. The module allows architects and designers to create designs that are harmonious and proportional, regardless of their size or scale.
Van der Laan’s system of proportion and measurement was a practical tool for architects and designers. It was also a philosophical approach to design! He believed that by following a system , architects and designers could create buildings and spaces that were not only functional, but also beautiful and meaningful.
Today, the plastic number and the module are still used by architects and designers. Van der Laan’s work still inspires many! They are seen as a powerful tool for creating balanced designs. They are also a way to connect modern architecture with the traditional principles of proportion and harmony.
The Monastery in Vaals
Van der Laan’s influence on the Bossche School movement can be seen in his designs for the monastery in Vaals. His work was characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and harmony. And of course the use of traditional materials and forms.
Despite his success as an architect and designer, van der Laan remained committed to his life as a monk. He continued to live and work in the monastery in Vaals until his death in 1991. He left behind a legacy of architectural and design excellence that continues to inspire and influence designers today!
The influence of Dom Hans van der Laan on the Bossche School movement was significant and enduring. His emphasis on harmony, proportion, and functionality, as well as his use of traditional materials and forms, helped to shape the movement and establish it as a distinctive and influential architectural style. Today, his work remains an inspiration to architects and designers around the world. His legacy continues to be felt in the buildings and structures that he helped to create.
Browse our collection of impressive and rare Dom Hans van der Laan pieces here!
After being closed due to the Covid pandemic, Galerie Gaudium is finally able to open our doors again and receive visitors! We took this opportunity to update our cognac themed exhibition. Anyone who hasn’t seen this collection yet, now has another chance! We take a moment to forget our worries and direct our attention to the refined taste of Cognac, applied in the world of design.
Cognac is a colour that combines warmth with luxury. We created an impressive collection around this colour. We have pieces in cognac upholstery, but also nicely matching pieces or piece inspired by these warm tones. Complimented by quality rugs from iconic artists and beautiful lighting.
One of our eye-catchers is the rare two-seater sofa by Ole Wanscher. A very special design by one of the biggest Danish designers. Inspired by the warm tone of cognac, we also collected matching lighting. The “Mother of Pearl” floor lamp for Rausch is a beautiful example. This amazing lamp is made of organic Capiz Shell, creating an incredible aesthetic! The warmth that it gives to the interior is a true experience. The iconic pair of “PK9” chairs by Poul Kjaerholm are another example of top quality rarities from the collection.
These and many more impressive designs are decorating the gallery. Complimented by beautiful rugs. For example the “Femme et Oiseaux” (woman and birds) tapestry after Joan Miró. The large Jan Snoeck tapestry is also a sight to behold! Snoeck was a Dutch artist and designer. His iconic style involves a lot of colour and playful shapes.
A lot of these pieces are available on our website. Some are exclusive to the exhibition. However, all showcased pieces are also for sale!
The cognac exhibition is open on Friday and Saturday from 13:00 to 18:00. We are looking forward to meeting you here in Amsterdam!
Vintage design has taken a prominent place in our everyday lives. The all-time favorites are popular in homes, restaurants and other public places. They live up the background of any photo shoot or shopping window. To top it off, several designs have found their way to movie stardom! We have summarized some of the most striking appearances of vintage design in the movies. Maybe your favorite movie has been closer to your everyday life than you thought!
Barcelona Chair
Let’s start with one of the most recognized objects of the last century: the Barcelona Chair. Even if you have little interest in vintage design, this beauty must seem familiar. Mies van der Rohe designed the chair and everything about it breathes his philosophy: “less is more”. Originaly produced in Germany for the World Exhibition in Barcelona, Spain. The production rights where given to Knoll International in 1948. They added some more foam to the seat to maximize seating comfort. It was inspired by old Roman seats, combined with contemporary materials. All the way from the Romans, the chairs made their way to the alternate universe of TRON: LEGACY (2010). The white upholstery that was used gives them a futuristic style!
As you might notice, they are not the only pieces of vintage design in this decor. Also, this is not the only decor showcasing the Barcelonas! The black leather version deserves to be mentioned as well. It has a very luxurious appearance. so of course it’s a perfect fit for the one and only Mr. James Bond (by Daniel Craig) in Casino Royale (2006).
DS-600 Sofa
One of the most iconic and sought after high-end pieces of Swiss design. The DS-600 sofa was originaly named after the myhtical alpine creature: Tatzelwurm (in short: a giant snake with a cat’s head). Call it mythical, this sofa definitely has an impressive appearance! Manufacturer De Sede famously combines unique designs with practical use. The modular elements of this sofa can be expanded to suit every individual taste. The luxurious, almost futuristic style of this piece did not remain unnoticed. It has traveled the world and even found its place in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s longest sofa. It even found it’s way to The Capitol in The Hunger Games (2012).
Moreover, the sofa had a role in the more recent movie Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018) on Netflix. It’s obvious that this midcentury piece is a timeless design: director’s seem to love using it to represent a futuristic style to the decor!
Tulip Chairs
The Tulip series (dining chairs and table) might be the most iconic design by Eero Saarinen. He aimed to resulve the “ugly, confusing, unrestful world” underneath tables and chairs. As a result: a collection of smooth shapes and a defining accomplishment of modern design. The unique style of these chairs has been noticed by interior designers and movie producers worldwide. They have a prominent role in one of the biggest movie and tv franchises of all time: Star Trek. Below a shot from the series Star Trek (1966-1969), showing how the chairs fit seamlessly even in a futuristic decor like this one! However, there are different variations on this chair. So they are perfectly suitable for different decors. This could definitely be considered otherworldly design!
We love seeing how vintage design has an impact on every aspect of society! They are not only living up our interiors, above all they are also a big part of our culture. It’s amazing how pieces that were designed years ago, are still being used today and in movies often represent a futuristic setting! Are you interested in learning more about design in the movies, and see the pieces in real life: the exhibition “All in the Movies” is on at Galerie Gaudium at the time of writing.
We are opened on Friday and Saturday from 13:00 to 18:00h. You can also contact us if you wish to receive more information about our current exhibition or latest items. All the items we have at our Galerie are also for sale and can be found at our online store! (Yes, also the pieces from this article)
After being closed due to the Covid pandemic, Galerie Gaudium is finally able to open our doors again and receive visitors! We took this opportunity to update our cognac themed exhibition. Anyone who hasn’t seen this collection yet, now has another chance! We take a moment to forget our worries and direct our attention to the refined taste of Cognac, applied in the world of design. 
