In a vibrant suburb of Amsterdam, Carice van Houten, known for her portrayal of Melisandre on HBO’s hit series, embarked on an adventurous journey of interior transformation alongside her partner, actor Guy Pearce. Their recently acquired 1918 brownstone was a blank canvas, with stark white walls that yearned for personality and vibrancy. Enter Nicole Dohmen, of Atelier ND Interior, who shared van Houten’s love for color and eclectic design. Together, they envisioned a home that embodied a kaleidoscopic blend of style and comfort.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Interior Designer: Nicole Dohmen
Homeowner: Carice van Houten and Guy Pearce
Location: Amsterdam Suburb
Storefront: Shop Atelier ND
Design Firm: Atelier ND Interior
Upon stepping into Shop Atelier ND, van Houten and Dohmen’s creative chemistry ignited a design partnership that broke traditional norms. Dohmen’s expertise helped refine van Houten’s exuberant color palette into a cohesive yet dynamic space that remained practical for family life. The duo worked on several bespoke projects, knocking down walls to create an open floor plan while retaining the house’s cozy, traditional integrity. This harmonious blend of design, personal style, and artistry became the cornerstone of their endeavors.
The home reveals a story of contrasts and complexity, where each room is a masterpiece of daring color and historic charm. The living room, ignited by a striking purple carpet, seamlessly integrates modern Scandinavian furniture with vintage curated pieces, creating a harmonious environment. In other areas, dramatic flourishes of pop art mingle with quaint Victorian fixtures, and vibrant fabrics engage in a symphony with avant-garde accents. Even the passageways elicit interest, where radiators become artful features instead of being concealed.
In creating Pearce’s and van Houten’s studies, the spaces reflect their unique personalities. Pearce’s office, painted in a bold chartreuse, captures a sense of focused energy, while van Houten’s workspace offers a cheerful spectrum of citrus tones balanced with berry-colored contrasts. These rooms extend glimpses of their colorful motifs through custom cabinetry and thoughtful details, making each study both a private retreat and a reflection of its occupant’s essence.
The dining area, once a greenhouse, embraces natural light and surrounding views through expansive windows, decorated with Helene Blanche and Étoffe treatments. Meanwhile, the kitchen dismisses pink in favor of earthy palettes enhanced by striking violet marble counters, retaining continuity and surprise within the house’s theme. Such choices highlight Dohmen’s understanding of how color can affect the utility and ambiance of a space, making every design decision intentional yet instinctively daring.
Throughout the home, each nook and underused area is transformed into a narrative of style and function. The entryway, painted in a blush pink, sets a sweet introduction as guests enter, while the main stairwell humorously hosts a vintage chair snugly fitted under its sloped ceiling. Contrasting floral and funky wallpapers in bedrooms underscore van Houten’s penchant for imperfect beauty, challenging conventions and offering delightful surprises. In this home, art and practicality converge, resulting in a space that is not just vibrant and lived-in, but a delightful embodiment of van Houten’s creative spirit.
