








Characteristic canal house with private garden and roof terrace in the historic Vijfhoek of Haarlem
Key Features
Description
This charming canal house is situated on Raamvest, one of the sunniest and most sought-after canals in Haarlem, positioned on the edge of the picturesque Vijfhoek district. Built in 1863, the property offers approximately 118 square metres of living space across three floors, providing comfortable accommodation for those who wish to experience authentic city living in the historic heart of Haarlem.
The ground floor welcomes you with an entrance hall that includes a meter cupboard and a modern toilet. The open-plan living and dining area is notably bright and atmospheric, thanks in large part to the tall glass doors at the rear of the property. From the dining area, residents enjoy unobstructed views over the Singel canal, while the rear of the property offers a charming vista of the centuries-old Nieuwe Kerk, a landmark that adds to the historic character of the surroundings. The elegant wooden floor with integrated underfloor heating runs throughout this level, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The modern open kitchen is fully equipped with an oven, boiling-water tap, combi microwave, dishwasher, hob, extractor hood, and a wine climate cabinet, making it well-suited for everyday cooking and entertaining alike.
A staircase leads to the first floor, where a spacious landing with built-in storage provides practical organization. This floor accommodates a bedroom at the rear with direct access to the generous roof terrace, which measures approximately 19 square metres and offers a sunny outdoor space with attractive views over the historic city centre. At the front of this level, a luxurious bathroom awaits, complete with a bathtub, walk-in shower, washbasin cabinet, second toilet, underfloor heating, and a designer radiator. The combination of high-quality finishes and thoughtful design makes this bathroom a comfortable and stylish space.
The second floor features a landing, a rear bedroom, and a front bedroom that includes a sleeping loft, maximizing the use of available space. A separate laundry room on this floor provides connections for a washing machine and dryer, adding to the practicality of the home. Additional storage is available behind the knee walls, and a fixed staircase from the front bedroom leads to an attic storage area. The central heating boiler, a Remeha CR Calenta combi unit from 2013, is also located in this attic space.
The outdoor areas of this property are particularly noteworthy. Large glass doors on the ground floor open seamlessly to a secluded city garden and patio area of approximately 17 square metres, offering a private retreat within the urban environment. The orientation of the garden faces northeast, providing a pleasant outdoor space for relaxation. At the front of the property, open waterways invite residents to enjoy water-based activities such as stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking during the warmer months, a distinctive advantage of living directly on a canal. The roof terrace accessible from the first floor captures ample sunlight and offers pleasant views across the historic rooftops of Haarlem's city centre.
The property is situated within a protected cityscape, meaning it is located in a designated historic preservation zone that safeguards the architectural character of the area. This contributes to the enduring appeal and stability of the neighbourhood. The plot size is 85 square metres, and the total volume of the building is 395 cubic metres, with an additional six square metres of other indoor space.
Energy performance is rated E on the official energy label, and the property is equipped with double glazing throughout. Heating is provided by the central heating boiler, with warm water supplied via the central system and an auxiliary electric boiler. Mechanical ventilation is installed to ensure adequate air circulation. While the energy label indicates room for improvement in terms of insulation and energy efficiency, the existing features such as double glazing and central heating provide a reasonable baseline of comfort.
Parking in the immediate vicinity is available through paid parking and resident parking permits, which is typical for living in a historic city centre location. The Vijfhoek district is known for its charming streets, lively atmosphere, and excellent proximity to the wide range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions that Haarlem's city centre has to offer. The city's excellent transport connections, including direct train links to Amsterdam, make it an attractive option for those who wish to enjoy a high quality of urban life while remaining well-connected to the wider region.
In summary, this canal house presents a compelling opportunity for buyers seeking a characterful and well-located property in the heart of Haarlem. With its combination of period features, modern comforts, private outdoor spaces including both a garden and a roof terrace, and direct access to open waterways, the property offers a distinctive lifestyle in one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in the city.

