Description
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam’s iconic canal belt, Het smalle Huisje (The Narrow House) is a quirky architectural marvel that never fails to catch the eye of passersby. As a local Amsterdammer, I’ve walked past this peculiar structure countless times, and it still manages to make me do a double-take. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how such a slender building has stood the test of time!
Located at Oude Hoogstraat 22, this extraordinary edifice measures a mere 2.02 meters (6.6 feet) wide at its facade, earning it the title of the narrowest house in Amsterdam. But don’t let its slim profile fool you ‚Äì Het smalle Huisje packs quite a punch in terms of historical significance and architectural ingenuity.
Dating back to the 17th century, this pint-sized property is a testament to the clever space-saving solutions employed by our ancestors. You see, back in the day, property taxes were calculated based on the width of a house’s facade. Crafty Amsterdammers, always looking to save a guilder or two, came up with the brilliant idea of building tall, narrow houses to minimize their tax burden. Talk about thinking outside the box ‚Äì or should I say, inside a very narrow one!
Key Features
Now, you might be wondering what makes Het smalle Huisje so special, apart from its slim figure. Well, let me tell you, this little gem is chock-full of fascinating features that’ll make your visit worthwhile.
First off, the facade itself is a sight to behold. Its ornate gable, typical of Dutch Renaissance architecture, is adorned with intricate details that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say “stroopwafel”. The narrow windows, strategically placed to maximize natural light, give you a tantalizing glimpse into the compact interior.
Speaking of the interior, it’s a masterclass in space optimization. While you can’t actually go inside (it’s a private residence, after all), it’s fun to imagine how the inhabitants make use of every nook and cranny. Word on the street is that the furniture has to be hoisted through the windows because it won’t fit through the door. Now that’s what I call a moving day challenge!
One of my favorite features of Het smalle Huisje is its charming step gable. This architectural element, common in Dutch and Flemish architecture, gives the illusion of the building reaching towards the sky. It’s like the house is standing on its tippy-toes, trying to get a better view of the bustling city around it.
But here’s a little secret that not many tourists know: Het smalle Huisje isn’t actually a full house. Surprise! It’s more of a facade or an extension of the building behind it. The actual living space extends into the larger building at the back. Still, that doesn’t make it any less impressive or worthy of a visit.
Oh, and did I mention the cute little plaque on the facade? It proudly proclaims the building’s status as the narrowest house in Amsterdam. It’s like a badge of honor, worn with pride by this skinny structure.
Best Time to Visit
Now, let’s talk about when you should plan your visit to this slender sensation. As an Amsterdam local, I can tell you that timing is everything when it comes to exploring our city’s attractions.
In my humble opinion, the best time to visit Het smalle Huisje is during the shoulder seasons ‚Äì that’s spring (April to mid-June) or autumn (September to November). The weather is generally pleasant, and you’ll avoid the peak tourist crowds of summer. Plus, the changing colors of the trees lining the canals provide a stunning backdrop for your photos.
If you’re an early bird, I’d recommend visiting in the morning. The soft light of dawn beautifully illuminates the facade, creating a magical atmosphere. Plus, you’ll have the street mostly to yourself, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots without photobombers.
However, if you’re more of a night owl (like yours truly), consider an evening visit. The narrow house takes on a different character when illuminated by street lamps, casting long shadows and creating an almost mysterious ambiance. It’s quite romantic, actually ‚Äì perfect for an after-dinner stroll with your significant other.
Winter can also be a magical time to visit, especially during the Amsterdam Light Festival (usually held from November to January). The city comes alive with stunning light installations, and while Het smalle Huisje isn’t part of the official route, the festive atmosphere in the surrounding area is truly special.
One word of caution: try to avoid visiting during peak hours on weekends or holidays. The narrow street can get pretty crowded, making it challenging to get a good view (or photo) of the house. Trust me, I’ve seen tourists practically climbing over each other to get the perfect shot!
How to Get There
Alright, now that you’re all excited about visiting Het smalle Huisje, let’s talk about how to actually get there. Don’t worry, it’s easier than trying to squeeze through the front door of the narrow house itself!
First things first, Het smalle Huisje is located at Oude Hoogstraat 22, right in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic center. It’s within walking distance of many other popular attractions, so you can easily incorporate it into your sightseeing itinerary.
If you’re coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station (and let’s face it, most tourists do), you’ve got a few options. My personal favorite is to walk. It’s about a 15-minute stroll through some of the most picturesque parts of the city. Just head south on Damrak, then take a right onto Damstraat. Follow this street as it becomes Oude Doelenstraat, then turn left onto Oude Hoogstraat. Before you know it, you’ll be face-to-facade with the narrowest house in Amsterdam.
Not in the mood for walking? No problem! You can hop on tram 4 or 14 from Centraal Station and get off at the Dam stop. From there, it’s just a short 5-minute walk to Het smalle Huisje.
For those of you who prefer to travel like a true Amsterdammer, rent a bike! There are plenty of bike rental shops near Centraal Station. Just be careful navigating the narrow streets of the old city center ‚Äì it can get a bit tricky, especially if you’re not used to our cycling culture.
If you’re coming from another part of the city, the nearest metro station is Nieuwmarkt. From there, it’s about a 7-minute walk to Het smalle Huisje.
One thing to keep in mind: parking in this area is a nightmare (and that’s putting it mildly). If you’re driving, I’d strongly recommend parking at one of the P+R facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport into the center. Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you.
Once you’re in the vicinity, keep your eyes peeled for the narrow facade. It’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention ‚Äì I’ve walked past it countless times without noticing when I’m in a hurry. But trust me, once you spot it, you’ll wonder how you ever missed it!
And here’s a pro tip from a local: while you’re in the area, take some time to explore the surrounding streets. The Oude Hoogstraat and nearby Nieuwmarkt area are full of charming cafes, unique shops, and historical buildings. Who knows, you might even stumble upon some hidden gems that aren’t in the guidebooks!
So there you have it, folks ‚Äì everything you need to know about visiting Het smalle Huisje, Amsterdam’s skinniest architectural wonder. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the quirkier side of life, this narrow house is sure to leave a big impression. And who knows? It might even inspire you to think differently about space utilization in your own home. Just maybe don’t try to recreate it ‚Äì your furniture will thank you!