Amsterdamse School & Zo

Originally, striking color schemes were used for doors and window frames, although these were often later painted white. What remained were the distinctive brickwork patterns, decorative tiles, intricate stained glass, (brick-built) flower boxes, and ornately constructed entrance portals.

Thanks to the Housing Act of 1902 and the rise of social housing and housing associations, fertile ground emerged in major cities for young architects. While the Amsterdam School had already passed its peak by the 1920s, its influence lingered among architects in Groningen—perhaps we should even speak of a „Groninger School“?

This regional variant is more restrained in style, yet we still see ladder windows, brick flower boxes, elegant entrances, and of course the characteristic tall chimneys. At Klaas Woltjerweg 41 in Zuidbroek, there is even a house where the architect or client captured the spirit perfectly: Simplex Sigillum Veri—Simplicity is the seal of truth.