My husband and I relocated to The Hague and Wassenaar a little over ten years ago to begin an exciting new chapter in our lives. This amazing city, which is adored by residents and visitors alike, has a rich historical culture; stunning beaches; cycling; and art and design. It is indeed a treasure.
Nations from all over the world gather at The Hague, recognised as the international city of peace and justice. The city also has the distinction of being the administrative capital (home to both the Dutch parliament as well as the King and Queen!).
As an international interior designer with a design studio here, I have immersed myself in all that is inspiring and beautiful in the Hague and Wassenaar. There are so many incredible places to talk about that writing this blog was not an easy task…Nonetheless, here are my 5 picks. I hope you enjoy them!
1 - Voorlinden (modern and contemporary art)
This magnificent modern and contemporary art museum, created by Kraaijvanger Architects, is located next to the Wassenaar dunes, woodland, and flowing rivers. The enthralling gardens on this estate were created by the internationally renowned Dutch landscape architect "Piet Oudolf," and only a short distance away is the Clingenbosch, home to more than 60 contemporary and modern sculptures by both local and international artists.
Voolinden is a museum of modern and contemporary art that has a fresh significance for audiences from across the world. It completely carries out its purpose to connect people, art, nature and architecture!
2 - Just Haasnoot (Interiors store)
In the heart of Wassenaar, in a gorgeous interior store housed in a 1752 historical building, you are able to explore an extensive collection of modern furniture, design, works of art, and some stunning bespoke items from their own in-house collections. This store is a treasure trove for everyone!
3 - Hotel Des Indes (hotel design)
Hotel Des Indes is a historic luxury hotel in the centre of The Hague. The building was originally built in 1858 for Baron van Brienen as a ‘Party Palace’. Over the years, this hotel has welcomed numerous famous guests, including royalty, politicians and celebrities. The interior refurbishment was designed by the incredible Jaques Garcia and exudes elegance and luxury, featuring lavish furnishings and chandeliers.
All the products in the bathroom suits are by Marie Stella (https://marie-stella-maris.com/collections/alle-producten)
The hotel's mixologist at the bar (which used to be the old stables) has recommended us the most delicious summer cocktail ‘The St Germain Spritz’.
Please see below the recipe, we hope you enjoy it!
The St Germain Spritz
A refreshing and delicious summer cocktail that features St Germain elderflower liqueur as its main ingredient. Here's a simple recipe to make a St Germain Spritz:
Ingredients:
2 ounces St Germain elderflower liqueur
3 ounces dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
2 ounces club soda
Ice cubes
Fresh lemon twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a wine glass or a large wine glass with ice cubes.
Pour the St Germain elderflower liqueur over the ice.
Add the dry white wine to the glass.
Top it off with club soda.
Stir gently to mix the ingredients together.
Garnish with a fresh lemon twist or slice.
Serve and enjoy!
4 - The Maurtishuis (historic art)
The Maurtishuis is a small world-class museum with a formidable collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings from the 17th century; the golden age of this type of art. Home to the iconic masterpieces, such as the Girl with the Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer and Anatomy Lessons of Nicholas Tulp by Rembrandt. Not only is the artwork outstanding but so is the incredible historic building they dwell in. This incredible building was designed between 1636 and 1641 by Dutch architects Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post for the very distinguished gentlemen of his time John Maurice, Prince of Nassau-Siegen and the interior architecture is in pristine condition and a piece of art in itself!
5 - Brasserie Buitenhuis (beach bar)
The Netherlands is known for its beach culture and beach bars during the summer months and one of my personal favourites is Brasserie Buitenhuis in Noordwijk, which is a charming coastal town just a short drive from Wassenaar and little further from Den Haag. This fabulous beach bar is spacious and comfortable with textured and natural interiors and large glass windows that allow an abundance of natural light and provide views of the stunning North Sea. The food and drink is delicious and it truly is a wonderful place for a relaxed brunch and /or a cozy and fun (gezellig) evening with friends and loved ones.
See our latest: Interior design projects in Wassenaar and The Hague
Also while you are here check out our bespoke hand made cushions from The Hague
