The Allure of Polly Goudvisch: North Amsterdam's New Design Beacon
Stepping off the ferry from Amsterdam Central Station, you're instantly drawn to the glowing establishment ahead – Polly Goudvisch.
Just steps from the dock, the two-storey bar and restaurant beacon invites you inside with its playful lettering and expansive terrace bathed in the summer sunshine.
Polly GOUDVISCH: A Fresh Chapter for the Goudvisch Family
Polly Goudvisch is the latest flagship in the Goudvisch family, an assembly of popular bars across Amsterdam. As the pioneer in the north of the city, Polly Goudvisch offers its own charm. The restaurant strikes a balance between traditional and contemporary, its interior echoing Amsterdam's iconic brown café style yet feeling distinctly modern. Wooden panelling, brass and copper details, and elaborate woodwork come together in a blend of old and new materials and patterns.
The interiors embodies Amsterdam's iconic brown café style with modern updates.
A Warm Welcome at the Bar
As you step inside, you're drawn to the heart of the bar. The transition from wooden floor to black and white terrazzo hints at the intricate design. Multifaceted light spheres cast a welcoming glow, and the bar shines in warm earthy tones bearing the Goudvisch logo. Watch out for the fishtail – a recurrent motif that lends the space its distinct character.
The bar is the heart of the restaurant.
Restaurant: A Space of Intimate Conviviality
Beyond the bar, the restaurant unfolds as a long yet cozy space. It harmoniously combines an open area with small interconnected spaces. Each holds its own ambiance, with bespoke light fixtures and furniture and different wall finishes. As you look around, the whimsical fishtail symbol reappears, unifying the space in a beautifully nuanced way.
The intricate woodwork details and exquisitely finished tabletops illustrate the craftsmanship that went into the space.
The Terrace: An Outdoor Haven
The terrace is an enchanting outdoor refuge. Colourful parasols and custom-made benches border the terrace, all featuring the beloved fishtail motif. Amidst this homelike setup, planters dot the space, lending a verdant touch to the landscape. The contrast of the spacious terrace with the bustling city across the river makes for a captivating sight.
Grab a spot on the terrace in the sun or shade. Heart-shaped corner tables offer an extra touch of romance for a date.
Polly GOUDVISCH’s Upstairs: A Private Jewel
Finally, we reach the crown jewel - the open attic upstairs. Here, the rustic original beams add character to the sloping roof, and long wooden tables surrounded by vintage chairs imbue the space with an inviting, familial atmosphere.
From the main bar to the intimate back terrace, Polly Goudvisch is a compelling blend of the traditional and the contemporary, creating a unique atmosphere that lures even the most discerning visitor. Whether for a quick drink or a grand celebration, this beautifully curated interior offers an immersive design experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression.
A cozy nook featuring exquisite wood detailing on the walls.
PROJECT DETAILS
Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Program: Cafe, bar, restaurant
Assignment: Interior design
Status: Completed April 2023
Size: 230m2 + 170 m2 interior / 332m2 terrace
Client: 3WO, Omar Baggen & Thijs Barelds
Design: Studio Modijefsky; Esther Stam, Moene van Werven, Agnese Pellino, Christel Willers, Ivana Stella, Felicia Ureña, Beata Karlsson
Photography: Maarten Willemstein (Interior) | Sophia van den Hoek (Ambience)