Charming 1930s Duplex Apartment with Private Entrance and Rooftop Terrace
Key Features
Upsides
- Private entrance provides privacy and independence unusual for apartments
- Spacious rooftop terrace of approximately 17 square meters with afternoon sun
- Recent major maintenance completed including roof replacement and exterior painting two years ago
- Preserved 1930s character features including two natural stone fireplaces and paneled doors
- Active and financially healthy VvE with reserve fund and maintenance plan in place
Downsides
- Energy label D indicates below average energy efficiency
- Only partial double glazing, meaning some windows lack proper insulation
- No dedicated parking space available, only public street parking
- Monthly VvE contribution of 150 euros is relatively high for this property type
- Located on the second floor requiring stair access with no elevator
Description
The property at Cremerstraat 51 is a two-story upper apartment situated in the Amsterdamse Buurt neighborhood of Haarlem. This residential area is known for its attractive streetscapes and convenient location within the city. The apartment was originally constructed in 1935, placing it within an era of Dutch architecture noted for its attention to detail and quality of construction. The building retains many characteristics typical of this period, which have been preserved and integrated with more recent updates to create a living space that bridges historical charm and contemporary comfort.
The total living area of the apartment measures 90 square meters, distributed across two full residential floors. In addition to the interior space, residents have access to 23 square meters of outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces consist of a balcony on the first residential level and a rooftop terrace accessible from the upper floor. A separate storage unit measuring 4 square meters provides space for bicycle storage or other items. The overall volume of the apartment is 303 cubic meters, which indicates comfortable ceiling heights consistent with properties of this era.
One distinguishing feature of this apartment is the presence of a private entrance. Rather than sharing a common stairwell with other residents, this property has its own entrance at street level, from which a staircase leads directly to the apartment. This arrangement provides a degree of privacy and independence that is not always available in apartment buildings, effectively giving the residence a character more akin to a house than a typical flat.
The interior of the apartment has been finished to a standard that highlights the original architectural features while incorporating modern materials and fixtures. The flooring throughout the main living areas is a PVC herringbone pattern, which provides the visual appeal of a traditional parquet floor while offering the practical benefits of a modern synthetic material. The walls and ceilings have been smoothly plastered, creating clean surfaces that allow the period details to stand out.
Several elements from the original 1930s construction have been preserved and serve as focal points within the interior. These include paneled doors, en suite doors that allow rooms to be connected or separated as desired, and two natural stone fireplaces. While the fireplaces are described as decorative features rather than functional heating sources, they contribute significantly to the character and atmosphere of the living spaces.
The main living floor is arranged to maximize the sense of space and light. The living room extends across the full width of the building thanks to an open side room, creating an extended layout that feels more generous than a simple rectangular room. At the front of the property, a bay window projects outward and provides a vantage point from which to observe the street below. The bay window also serves to introduce additional natural light into the living area.
At the rear of the main floor, the kitchen is positioned in an open configuration that connects with the living and dining spaces. The kitchen is fitted with built-in appliances, though the specific makes and models are not detailed in the listing. A bar counter has been incorporated into the kitchen design, creating an informal seating area that can serve for casual meals or as a gathering point when entertaining. French doors in both the kitchen and the adjacent dining area open onto the balcony, allowing natural ventilation and easy access to outdoor space during favorable weather.
The upper floor of the apartment contains the private sleeping quarters and bathroom facilities. A skylight installed in the landing area ensures that this level receives adequate natural light, preventing the staircase and upper hallway from feeling enclosed or dark. Two bedrooms are located on this floor, both described as spacious. A third room on this level is currently used as a laundry room, though its dimensions suggest it could potentially serve as a small bedroom, home office, or additional storage space depending on the needs of the occupants.
The bathroom has been finished with contemporary fixtures and materials. It includes a walk-in shower, a vanity unit with washbasin, and wall tiles with a glossy finish. The shower enclosure features glass panels with black accent details, which provides a modern contrast to the more traditional elements found elsewhere in the apartment. A separate toilet room is also located on this floor, which is a practical arrangement for a property with multiple bedrooms.
The rooftop terrace is a notable feature of this property, measuring approximately 17 square meters. This outdoor space is accessible directly from one of the upper floor bedrooms, making it a private amenity for the occupants of that room. The terrace is described as receiving sunlight into the afternoon hours, making it suitable for various outdoor activities from morning through late afternoon. At 17 square meters, the terrace is large enough to accommodate outdoor furniture for dining or lounging, offering an extension of the living space during warmer months.
The building in which this apartment is located has received recent maintenance attention. According to the listing, the flat roof sections were replaced approximately two years ago, and the exterior painting was completed at the same time. These are significant maintenance items that can represent considerable expense for property owners, and their recent completion suggests that the building is in a well-maintained condition. The private entrance hallway has also been repainted recently, indicating ongoing attention to the presentation of the property.
The homeowners association for the building is described as active and financially healthy. The monthly contribution to the VvE is 150 euros, which covers shared maintenance costs and building insurance. The listing confirms that the VvE is registered with the Chamber of Commerce, holds annual general meetings, maintains a reserve fund, and has an opstalverzekering in place. These are all indicators of a properly functioning and well-managed association.
The heating system for the apartment is a gas-fired combination boiler manufactured by Intergas. This boiler was installed in 2015 and is owned by the current owner, meaning it will transfer to the purchaser as part of the sale. The property has been assigned an energy label of D. The insulation status is described as partial double glazing, which suggests that some windows have been upgraded while others retain the original single glazing. Prospective buyers may wish to consider the potential for further energy efficiency improvements.
Parking at the property is available on the public street only. No dedicated parking space or garage is included with the apartment. In Haarlem, as in many Dutch cities, public parking typically requires a permit for residents, and availability can vary by neighborhood.
The Amsterdamse Buurt neighborhood in which this property is located is characterized as a lively and popular area. The listing notes the presence of coffee shops and retail stores within walking distance, as well as proximity to the center of Haarlem. For those who commute by car, the location provides access to major roads leading toward Amsterdam. The coastal areas of Bloemendaal and Zandvoort, with their dune landscapes and beaches, are described as being accessible by bicycle, offering recreational opportunities within a reasonable distance of the city.
Features
Bathroom
Shower
The listing explicitly mentions a 'ruime inloopdouche' (spacious walk-in shower) in the bathroom.
Bathtub
No bathtub is mentioned in the description or features list; only a walk-in shower is listed.
Ensuite Bathroom
The 'en suite deuren' mentioned refer to the living room and side room on the first floor, not a bathroom connected to a bedroom.
Guest Toilet
The features list explicitly states '1 badkamer en 1 apart toilet' (1 separate toilet).
Bidet
No bidet is mentioned in the description or features list.
Double Shower
No double shower is mentioned; only a single walk-in shower is described.
Shared Shower
The property is a duplex apartment with its own entrance, so the shower is private.
Shared Toilet
The property is a duplex apartment with its own entrance, so the toilet is private.
His And Hers Sinks
The features list explicitly states 'dubbele wastafel' (double vanity/sink) under bathroom provisions.
Building General
Corner Property
Exterior
Balcony
The listing explicitly mentions a 'breed balkon' (wide balcony).
Rear Garden
The listing mentions a balcony and rooftop terrace, but no rear garden.
Front Garden
No front garden is mentioned.
Side Garden
No side garden is mentioned.
Terrace
While there is a rooftop terrace, there is no mention of a standard ground-level terrace.
Rooftop Terrace
The listing highlights a 'zonnig dakterras' (sunny rooftop terrace) of approximately 17 m².
Barbecue Area
No barbecue area is mentioned in the listing.
Fenced Yard
There is no mention of a fenced yard.
Patio
No patio is mentioned; outdoor space consists of a balcony and rooftop terrace.
Veranda
No veranda is mentioned.
Guest House
There is no mention of a guest house.
Waterfront
The property is not located on the water.
Kitchen Garden
No kitchen garden is mentioned.
Equestrian Facilities
No equestrian facilities are present.
Small Livestock Facilities
No small livestock facilities are present.
Private Outdoor Pool
No private outdoor pool is mentioned.
Private Outdoor Jacuzzi
No private outdoor jacuzzi is mentioned.
Private Tennis Court
No private tennis court is mentioned.
Remarkable Mountain View
Haarlem is a flat area with no mountains.
Remarkable City View
The view is described as looking into a cozy street, not a remarkable city view.
Remarkable Garden View
There is no garden to view from the property.
Remarkable Sea View
Although the beach is nearby, the listing does not mention a sea view from the apartment.
Remarkable Harbour View
There is no harbour view.
Remarkable Landmark View
No landmark views are mentioned.
Interior Comfort
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is not mentioned, which is typical for a 1930s apartment in the Netherlands.
Central Heating
The listing explicitly mentions a CV-ketel (combiboiler) for heating.
Fireplace
The listing states there are two natural stone fireplaces.
Hardwood Floors
The listing specifies a PVC herringbone floor, not hardwood.
Tiled Floors
Tiled walls are mentioned in the bathroom, but tiled floors are not specified.
Laminate Flooring
The floor is explicitly described as PVC, not laminate.
Carpeted Floors
The listing mentions a PVC floor throughout, with no mention of carpet.
Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating is not mentioned; heating is provided by a central boiler.
Walk In Closet
There is no mention of a walk-in closet in the description of the bedrooms.
Home Office
There is an extra room currently used as a laundry room, but it is not mentioned as a home office.
Skylight
The listing mentions a skylight on the landing.
Exposed Beams
The listing describes smoothly plastered walls and ceilings, indicating no exposed beams.
Bay Window
The listing mentions a bay window at the front of the living room.
Private Indoor Pool
A private indoor pool is not present in a 90 m² apartment.
Private Indoor Sauna
A private indoor sauna is not mentioned in the listing.
French Doors
The listing states there are French doors to the balcony.
Ornamental Plasterwork
The walls and ceilings are described as smoothly plastered, which usually implies a lack of ornamental plasterwork.
Interior Style
Scandinavian
No Scandinavian design elements are mentioned; the style is described as 1930s charm with a modern twist.
Modern
The listing mentions a 'modern twist' and a 'modern, luxurious' bathroom, but the base style remains 1930s classic.
Industrial
There are no industrial features mentioned; the aesthetic focuses on 1930s charm and smooth plastered walls.
Mediterranean
No Mediterranean elements or colors are described in the listing.
Classic
The property features 1930s charm including paneled doors, en suite doors, and natural stone fireplaces.
Exterior Style
Traditional Historic
Built in 1935, the home features authentic 1930s details like paneled doors, en suite doors, and natural stone fireplaces.
Early 20th Century
The listing explicitly refers to the 'jaren '30' (1930s) style and the construction year is 1935.
Post War Functional
The building was constructed in 1935, which is pre-war.
Modernist
While renovated with modern touches, the core style is traditional 1930s rather than modernist.
Newly Build
The property is listed as 'Bestaande bouw' (existing construction) from 1935.
Kitchen
Kitchen Island
The listing mentions a 'gezellig barretje' (cozy little bar), which is a small bar counter, not a kitchen island.
Open Plan Kitchen
The listing explicitly describes 'open keuken' (open kitchen) and how it flows seamlessly with the dining area and living space.
Pantry
No mention of a pantry in the listing, and the 1930s duplex layout would not typically include one.
Build In Coffee Maker
No mention of a built-in coffee maker in the listing.
Boiling Water Tap
No mention of a boiling water tap (such as Quooker) in the listing.
Downdraft Extractor
No mention of a downdraft extractor in the listing.
Shared Kitchen
This is a private duplex apartment with its own entrance, so the kitchen is not shared.
Design Kitchen
The kitchen has modern features and built-in appliances with a cozy bar, but it's described with 1930s charm rather than high-end designer aesthetics.
New Kitchen
No indication the kitchen is new; the building is from 1935 and while renovated, no specific mention of kitchen replacement.
Parking & Storage
Parking
The features section states 'Soort parkeergelegenheid Openbaar parkeren' (Type of parking: Public parking), meaning no designated parking spot belongs to the property.
Storage Room
The features section explicitly lists 'Externe bergruimte 4 m²' (external storage room 4 m²).
Garage
No garage is mentioned anywhere in the description or features list.
Automatic Garage Door
There is no garage present at the property.
Double Garage
There is no garage present at the property.
Attic
The property is a 'dubbel bovenhuis' (duplex upper apartment) with a rooftop terrace, but no attic space is mentioned.
Cellar
There is no mention of a cellar or basement in the description or features.
Bike Storage
The description states: 'Daarnaast hoort er bij de woning ook nog een eigen fietsenschuurtje' (the home comes with its own bike shed).
Covered Parking
No covered parking is mentioned for cars; only public parking is available.
Underground Parking
No underground parking is mentioned in the listing.
Ev Charging
There is no mention of EV charging facilities or stations at the property.
Workshop
No workshop is mentioned in the property description.
Shed
The listing mentions an 'eigen fietsenschuurtje' (own bike shed) on the premises.
Rules
Owners Association
The listing explicitly states 'De VvE is actief en financieel gezond' (The VvE is active and financially sound) and shows a monthly VvE contribution of €150.
Leasehold
The listing states 'EigendomssituatieVolle eigendom' which means full ownership, indicating no leasehold.
Oa Chamber Of Commerce Registered
The VvE checklist explicitly shows 'Inschrijving KvKJa' (Chamber of Commerce registration: Yes).
Oa Annual Meeting
The VvE checklist explicitly shows 'Jaarlijkse vergaderingJa' (Annual meeting: Yes).
Oa Fees
The listing shows 'Bijdrage VvE€ 150,00 per maand' and the checklist confirms 'Periodieke bijdrageJa (€ 150,00 per maand)'.
Oa Reserve Fund
The VvE checklist explicitly shows 'Reservefonds aanwezigJa' (Reserve fund present: Yes).
Oa Maintenance Plan
The VvE checklist explicitly shows 'OnderhoudsplanJa' (Maintenance plan: Yes).
Oa Buildings Insurance
The VvE checklist explicitly shows 'OpstalverzekeringJa' (Buildings insurance: Yes).
Safety & Accessibility
Elevator
1935 build, upper floor duplex, no mention of an elevator, text explicitly says 'stap je naar boven' (step upstairs).
Private Entrance
Listing explicitly states 'met eigen entree' (with own entrance) and 'Via je eigen entree stap je naar boven'.
Automatic Gate
Located on a public street in a residential neighborhood with no mention of gates or enclosed grounds.
Gated Community
Described as being on a 'cozy street' with public parking, clearly not a gated community.
Wheelchair Accessible
It is a duplex upper house ('dubbel bovenhuis') situated on the 2nd floor without an elevator, requiring navigation of stairs.
Utilities & Technical
Washing Machine Connections
Since there is a room currently functioning as a laundry room ('wasruimte'), it is highly likely to have the necessary water and drain connections.
Laundry Room
The description explicitly states there is an extra room currently used as a laundry room ('nog een extra kamer die nu gebruikt wordt als wasruimte').
Smart Home
The listing highlights 1930s charm with modern finishes but does not mention any smart home technology or systems.
Water Softener
Water softeners are extremely rare in Dutch residential real estate and are not mentioned in the listing.
Energy Efficiency
Solar Panels
No mention of solar panels anywhere in the listing.
Double Glazing
The listing explicitly states 'Gedeeltelijk dubbel glas' (partially double glazing).
Triple Glazing
The listing mentions only partial double glazing, with no mention of triple glazing.
Heat Pump
The listing specifies a gas-fired combi boiler (Intergas from 2015) for heating, not a heat pump.
Home Battery
No mention of a home battery anywhere in the listing.
Location
History
No history available for this listing.