In the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district lies Museum Van Loon, a city palace built in 1672, designed by architect Adriaen Dortsman. Its first resident was the painter Ferdinand Bol, a pupil of Rembrandt. The interior reflects the wealth of Amsterdam in the 17th century. The Van Loon family moved in in 1884, and in 1973 Maurits van Loon opened the house to the public.
Inside, visitors can view family portraits, furniture, silverware, and porcelain that illustrate how a wealthy Amsterdam family once lived. Behind the house lies a large 17th-century garden, enclosed by the grand façade of the coach house—a unique and rare ensemble still in its original state. Anyone curious to peek behind the iconic canal façades should not miss this museum.
From May 29 to August 31, 2025, artist Kehinde Wiley will exhibit portraits at Museum Van Loon. Lichtvormgevers has been commissioned to illuminate Wiley’s works and will design a custom lighting system tailored to the monumental portraits. By using multiple small spotlights, the artworks will be accented with carefully directed light.
Additionally, the distinctive table lamps throughout the museum’s historic rooms will be fitted with dimmable white light that can shift in color temperature, ensuring the exhibition spaces feel like a cohesive whole.
