A Life Afloat HIMACS transforms a houseboat in Amsterdam

On the calm waters of one of Amsterdam’s historic canals, a distinctive houseboat is moored, featuring refined minimalist interiors that combine the charm of these unique dwellings with the comfort and demands of contemporary living. In this modern floating home, HIMACS plays a key role, creating durable surfaces and structural elements designed to stand the test of time.

A symbol of the city, houseboats represent an intriguing alternative way of living. Originally, old barges and traditional vessels were repurposed after the Second World War to address housing shortages. Over time, purpose-built solutions have emerged, such as “arks” – new floating residential units characterised by horizontal layouts, expansive panoramic glazing and clean, geometric architecture.

Within one of these distinctive homes on water, Dutch bespoke interior specialist Houtwerk Beverwijk was responsible for the kitchen, bathroom and external window frames, selecting premium HIMACS solid surface to ensure high performance, long-term durability and a flawless aesthetic.

A kitchen with a view over the canal

Stepping aboard, visitors are welcomed into a bright and airy open-plan space that seamlessly combines kitchen, dining and living areas. Positioned in front of two large windows, the kitchen is fabricated in HIMACS Cream and benefits from uninterrupted views over the canal, enjoying exceptional natural light throughout the day.
In keeping with the minimalist aesthetic, the kitchen is conceived as a clean and essential architectural composition. The worktop integrates both the sink and an induction hob with built-in extraction, while the wall units – featuring 12 mm thick fronts – are finished with discreet handles that reinforce the overall visual clarity.
HIMACS is ideally suited to kitchen environments thanks to its outstanding hygienic properties. Its non-porous, seamless surface prevents the build-up of dirt and inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, germs and mould, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment.
 

Alongside the HIMACS kitchen, a fully equipped wall unit incorporates an oven, wooden cabinetry and open shelving, providing additional storage and functionality. The HIMACS Cream tone, combined with the warmth of wood, creates a contemporary, welcoming and harmonious atmosphere.
This setting is further enhanced by the sculptural Tripod Light, designed by Maarten Diederix for ITEM Amsterdam, Houtwerk’s sister company. Inspired by natural world, the lamp evokes a flower about to bloom: its three HIMACS “petals” enclose the light source and gently open downwards, forming a stable base that allows the piece to stand independently.

Compact and functional: a smart bathroom

HIMACS’ hygienic properties extend into the bathroom, a compact room positioned between the wardrobe and bedroom, with dual access from both spaces. Every element has been carefully considered: on one side, a walk-in shower formed by three panels of HIMACS Alpine White creates a micro-architectural feature, while on the other, a bespoke vanity unit with integrated basin completes the space with a refined, minimalist solution.
To optimise the limited space, the toilet is located in a separate compact area, which also includes a small HIMACS basin, improving spatial organisation and overall functionality.
 

Perfect frames, impeccable details

One of the project’s main challenges was the fabrication of the external HIMACS window frames for the generous fenestration of the houseboat, requiring a high level of precision and technical expertise. For Houtwerk Beverwijk, using HIMACS in exterior applications is familiar, having successfully applied the material in a previous renovation of a historic building.
The warm tone selected for this application, HIMACS Peanut Butter, pairs harmoniously with the timber cladding, creating a coherent architectural language. During installation, every angle and joint had to align with absolute precision to withstand changing weather conditions, temperature fluctuations and humidity.
HIMACS also demonstrates its superior qualities outdoors: in addition to exceptional durability, it offers strong resistance to fire and water – essential for this type of project. It resists moisture absorption, preventing mould formation, and withstands weathering and UV exposure while maintaining its beauty and performance over time.
 

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