Charming 1930s Apartment with Modern Kitchen and Dual Balconies in Rotterdam Blijdorp
Key Features
Upsides
- The modern kitchen renovated in 2024 provides up to date appliances and convenience while the apartment retains charming 1930s features like stained glass and a marble fireplace.
- The property features two balconons on opposite sides (northeast and southwest), allowing residents to enjoy outdoor space and sunlight at different times of the day.
- The location in Blijdorp is central and green, offering easy access to Vroesenpark, the city center, public transport links, and major highways.
- Despite being built in 1938, the apartment has an Energy Label C and is fully equipped with double glazing and a relatively new central heating boiler from 2017.
Downsides
- The apartment has only one bedroom, which may limit its suitability for larger families or those requiring a dedicated guest room or home office space.
- Parking is not included and requires a permit or paid parking, which can be inconvenient and costly for car owners.
- There is a self-occupancy obligation included in the listing, which prevents the property from being used as a buy-to-let investment or rented out immediately.
- The property is located on the second floor with access via a stone staircase and there is no mention of an elevator, which could be a drawback for those with mobility issues.
Description
This apartment presents a unique opportunity to reside in a home that balances historical character with modern comfort. Situated in the popular Blijdorp neighborhood in Rotterdam, this property offers a distinctive living experience defined by its atmospheric 1930s design. Upon entering the residence on the first floor, one is immediately welcomed by a sense of warmth and charm, largely attributed to the beautiful dark wooden floor that runs throughout the living space. This flooring choice enhances the inviting atmosphere of the home, creating a cozy environment that feels like a true retreat from the bustling city outside. The apartment is located on the second story of the building and is part of a protected cityscape, ensuring the preservation of its classic architectural features for years to come.
The layout of the apartment is designed for both comfort and functionality. The living area spans the entire length of the home, providing a spacious feel. A particularly charming feature of the living room is the separation of the sitting and dining areas by stunning ensuite doors. These doors are equipped with colored stained glass windows, a quintessential element of the 1930s style that adds a touch of elegance and historical value to the interior. Additionally, the room features four built-in cupboards, offering practical storage solutions while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the space. The presence of a marble fireplace in the dining area serves as a focal point and a nod to the building's heritage, adding character and a sense of permanence to the home.
The kitchen in this apartment has been completely modernized and renovated in 2024, blending contemporary convenience with the classic surroundings. It is a semi-open kitchen that connects seamlessly with the dining area, making it an ideal space for entertaining guests or enjoying family meals. The kitchen is well equipped with a comprehensive suite of appliances designed to cater to all culinary needs. It includes an induction cooktop, an extractor hood, and an oven for baking and roasting. For food storage, the kitchen features both a refrigerator and a freezer. Cleanup is made effortless with the inclusion of a dishwasher. Furthermore, the central heating boiler setup is located within the kitchen, making maintenance easily accessible. The modern amenities ensure that daily life is convenient and comfortable, complementing the historical ambiance of the rest of the apartment.
One of the standout features of this property is the availability of two outdoor spaces, situated on opposite sides of the home. This unique attribute ensures that residents can enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, regardless of the position of the sun. The first balcony is located at the rear of the house, facing the northeast. This space is accessible from the living room via French doors, creating a smooth transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. This balcony is particularly pleasant during the earlier parts of the day, offering a quiet spot to enjoy a morning coffee. The second balcony is located at the front of the property and faces the southwest. This location captures the evening sun, making it a perfect spot for dining al fresco or relaxing after a long day. It also offers a view of the green park situated directly in front of the building. The presence of two distinct outdoor areas significantly enhances the living experience by providing variety and flexibility in how the outdoor space is used.
The sleeping accommodations are situated at the rear of the apartment. The bedroom is a generously sized room featuring large window panels that allow for an abundance of natural light. This room also provides access to the northeast facing balcony, allowing residents to step outside directly from their bedroom. The bathroom is conveniently located within the apartment and is fitted with a shower, a sink, and a toilet. The inclusion of these facilities within the main living space ensures privacy and ease of use for the residents. In the hallway, the meter cupboard is located, keeping the technical utilities neatly organized out of sight. Additionally, the ownership of the property includes a storage room measuring approximately 8 square meters. This storage space is located in the basement of the building, providing an excellent area to store bicycles, seasonal items, or outdoor gear, thereby helping to keep the main apartment clutter free.
The location of this apartment in the Blijdorp neighborhood is one of its most significant assets. Blijdorp is a highly sought after residential area known for its green surroundings and central location. Living here means enjoying the tranquility of a residential area while still being close to all necessary daily amenities. The neighborhood boasts a wide range of facilities including supermarkets, specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, schools, and sports facilities. Everything one needs for daily life is within easy reach. A major highlight of the area is the nearby Vroesenpark. This city park is often referred to as the second favorite backyard of many Rotterdam residents. When the sun shines, the park transforms into a vibrant social hub where people gather to relax and socialize. The park allows for barbecuing and hosts various food events throughout the year, contributing to a lively and friendly community vibe.
For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, the Roel Langerakpark is nearby, offering a freely accessible athletics track and a disc golf court where sports enthusiasts can train and play. Nature lovers and families will appreciate the walking promenade that leads towards the zoo, Diergaarde Blijdorp. This provides a wonderful opportunity for recreational outings and enjoying nature without having to travel far. The proximity to the Oude Noorden and the Provenierswijk is also a major advantage. These neighboring districts are renowned for their diverse offerings in the fields of food, fashion, and design. Residents can easily explore these areas to discover trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and a wide array of dining options, ensuring that there is always something new to see and do.
Connectivity from this location is excellent. The bustling city center of Rotterdam can be reached within just ten minutes by bicycle, making it an ideal location for commuters or those who wish to enjoy the city nightlife and cultural events. Public transport options are plentiful, with Central Station and Blijdorp metro station located very close by. This ensures that travel by train, metro, or tram is convenient and efficient. For those who travel by car, the major highways A13 and A20 are easily accessible, providing quick routes to other cities and regions. This combination of excellent public transport links and road connectivity makes the apartment perfectly positioned for both local and international travel.
From a technical perspective, the apartment is in good condition. It has an energy label C, which is a respectable rating for a building constructed in 1938. The property is fully equipped with double glazing, specifically HR++ glass, which contributes to better insulation and energy efficiency. Heating and hot water are provided by a high-efficiency central heating boiler installed in 2017. The property is located on its own ground, meaning there is full ownership without the complications of leasehold. The active Homeowners Association contributes to the maintenance of the building, with a monthly contribution of approximately 105 euros. The association is healthy and has a maintenance plan and a reserve fund in place. It is important to note that an age clause will be included in the purchase agreement, which is standard practice for older homes. Additionally, the property is subject to a self-occupancy obligation, meaning the buyer must intend to live in the property themselves, ensuring a stable community of owner-occupiers. Parking in the area is handled through a permit system and paid parking. This apartment offers a compelling blend of historical charm, modern updates, and a prime location in one of Rotterdams most desirable neighborhoods.
Features
Bathroom
Shower
The listing explicitly states the bathroom is equipped with a shower ('douche').
Bathtub
The description only lists a shower, with no mention of a bathtub.
Ensuite Bathroom
The layout states that all rooms are accessible from the hall ('Vanuit de hal zijn alle vertrekken... te bereiken'), indicating the bathroom is not directly connected to the bedroom. The 'ensuite' mention refers to doors separating the living room areas, not a master bath.
Guest Toilet
There is only one toilet mentioned, and it is located inside the bathroom. No separate guest toilet is listed.
Heated Towel Rail
A heated towel rail is not mentioned in the listing description or features.
Bidet
A bidet is not mentioned in the listing description or features.
Rain Shower
A rain shower is not specified; only a general shower is mentioned.
Double Shower
There is no mention of a double shower setup.
Shared Shower
The property is a private apartment ('appartement'), not a shared housing facility, so the shower is private.
Shared Toilet
The property is a private apartment, so the toilet is private.
His And Hers Sinks
The listing mentions a single sink ('wastafel'), not double sinks.
Bathroom Heated Floor
Floor heating ('vloerverwarming') is not mentioned in the listing.
Building General
Corner Property
Exterior
Balcony
The listing explicitly mentions 'twee balkons' (two balconies) and lists 'Balkon aanwezig' in the features.
Rear Garden
The property is an apartment on the 2nd floor; there is no mention of a rear garden, only balconies.
Front Garden
The property is an apartment; there is no mention of a front garden.
Side Garden
The property is an apartment; there is no mention of a side garden.
Terrace
The listing specifies balconies on the 2nd floor rather than a ground-level terrace.
Rooftop Terrace
The property is a 2nd-floor apartment with no mention of a rooftop terrace.
Barbecue Area
While the nearby park allows barbecuing, there is no private barbecue area attached to the property.
Fenced Yard
The property is an apartment without a private yard.
Patio
The property is an apartment with balconies, not a patio.
Veranda
There is no mention of a veranda.
Guest House
There is no mention of a guest house.
Waterfront
The listing mentions a park and city surroundings, but no waterfront location.
Kitchen Garden
There is no mention of a kitchen garden.
Equestrian Facilities
There are no equestrian facilities mentioned for this city apartment.
Small Livestock Facilities
There are no livestock facilities mentioned.
Private Outdoor Pool
There is no mention of a private pool.
Private Outdoor Jacuzzi
There is no mention of a private jacuzzi.
Private Tennis Court
There is no mention of a tennis court.
Remarkable Mountain View
Located in Rotterdam, which is flat, there are no mountain views.
Remarkable City View
While in a city, the views are described as looking at a 'green park' rather than a remarkable city skyline.
Remarkable Garden View
The listing highlights a view of a 'groene parkje' (green park) from the balcony.
Remarkable Sea View
Rotterdam is a port city, but this area (Blijdorp) is inland and there is no sea view mentioned.
Remarkable Harbour View
Located near Blijdorp park, away from the major harbour views typically found further south in Rotterdam.
Remarkable Landmark View
No specific landmarks are mentioned in the view description.
Interior Comfort
Central Heating
The listing explicitly states 'Verwarming en warm water middels HR-ketel (2017)' (Heating and hot water via HR-combi boiler).
Fireplace
The listing mentions a 'marmeren schouw' (marble mantelpiece) which is a fireplace surround. While the surround is present, the functionality of the fire itself is not specified, though the feature exists.
Hardwood Floors
The description states 'donkere houten vloer' (dark wooden floor) which typically refers to hardwood or parquet in 1930s apartments.
Tiled Floors
The description highlights a dark wooden floor extending through the living area. Tiled floors are not mentioned in the bathroom description (which only lists shower, sink, toilet) or kitchen.
Laminate Flooring
The listing specifies a 'houten vloer' (wooden floor), which in the context of a 1930s monument usually implies real wood rather than laminate, though laminate is not impossible.
Carpeted Floors
The listing explicitly mentions a wooden floor. Carpet is not mentioned and is uncommon in Dutch renovations of this style.
Underfloor Heating
Heating is provided by an HR-ketel (combi boiler). Underfloor heating is not mentioned, and in renovated 1930s apartments, radiators or convectors are the standard.
Walk In Closet
The layout mentions a bedroom with access to the balcony and 'vaste kasten' (fixed cupboards) in the living room, but no walk-in closet.
Home Office
The listing mentions 3 rooms (1 bedroom, living room, kitchen). No specific home office or separate study space is mentioned.
Skylight
The apartment is on the first floor of a 1930s building. Skylights are not mentioned; windows are described as 'grote raampartijen' (large window sections).
Exposed Beams
This is a 1930s apartment with a described 'huiselijke sfeer' (homely atmosphere) and specific features like stained glass. Exposed beams are typical of industrial or rustic lofts, not this style.
Bay Window
While 1930s architecture sometimes features bay windows (erker), the text specifically highlights 'ensembles deuren' (french doors) and balconies. A bay window is not explicitly described.
Private Indoor Pool
The property is a 65 m2 apartment. A private indoor pool is impossible in this space and context.
Private Indoor Sauna
There is no mention of a sauna in the features or layout (bathroom has shower, sink, toilet).
Built-In Wardrobes
The description states 'vier vaste kasten' (four fixed cupboards) in the living room.
French Doors
The listing describes 'ensembles deuren' (french doors) separating the living area and 'openslaande deuren' (french doors/sliding doors) to the balcony.
Ornamental Plasterwork
Ornamental plasterwork (stucwerk) is common in 1930s homes but not explicitly listed as a feature here. The description focuses on doors, floors, and the mantelpiece.
Interior Style
Scandinavian
The listing describes a 1930s characteristic apartment with dark wooden floors and stained glass, which contrasts with the minimalist, light-toned typical Scandinavian style.
Modern
While the kitchen was renovated in 2024 and the property has modern amenities (HR++ glass, label C), the core architectural style is explicitly 1930s 'jaren '30 stijl', featuring classic elements like ensuite doors and a mantelpiece.
Industrial
The description emphasizes charm, stained glass, and a residential 1930s neighborhood vibe. There is no mention of industrial elements like exposed brick, large steel windows, or concrete.
Mediterranean
The property is in Rotterdam, Netherlands, built in 1938. The style is described as 'jaren '30' (Dutch 1930s style), not Mediterranean.
Classic
The listing highlights 'jaren ’30-sfeer' (1930s atmosphere), 'karakteristieke', 'Beschermd stadsgezicht' (protected city view), 'ensembles deuren' (french doors), and 'glas-in-loodramen' (stained glass), all indicative of a classic architectural style.
Exterior Style
Traditional Historic
Built in 1938, described as 'jaren ’30-sfeer' (1930s style), features stained glass, marble fireplace, and is in a protected cityscape.
Early 20th Century
Built in 1938, falling squarely within the early 20th century architectural period.
Post War Functional
The building was constructed in 1938, which is pre-war.
Modernist
The building is historic (1938) with traditional features. While the kitchen is modern (2024), the building style is not modernist.
Newly Build
The building dates from 1938 and is listed as 'Bestaande bouw' (existing construction).
Kitchen
Dishwasher
The listing explicitly states the kitchen includes a 'vaatwasser' (dishwasher).
Oven
The listing explicitly states the kitchen includes an 'oven'.
Refrigerator
The listing explicitly states the kitchen includes a 'koelkast' (refrigerator).
Freezer
The listing explicitly states the kitchen includes a 'vriezer' (freezer).
Kitchen Island
The apartment is described as a 1930s home with a 'halfopen keuken' (semi-open kitchen) and en-suite doors separating rooms, a layout that typically precludes a kitchen island.
Open Plan Kitchen
The listing explicitly describes the kitchen as 'halfopen' (semi-open), which means it is not fully open-plan.
Stove
The listing mentions an 'inductiekookplaat' (induction cooktop), which functions as the stove.
Induction Stove
The listing explicitly states the presence of an 'inductiekookplaat' (induction cooktop).
Shared Kitchen
The property is an apartment on 'eigen grond' (private ground), implying exclusive use of the kitchen.
Design Kitchen
The kitchen is described as modern, renovated in 2024, and features a marble mantelpiece ('marmeren schouw') and 1930s character, indicating a stylish finish, though no specific luxury design brand is cited.
New Kitchen
The text explicitly states the kitchen was 'gerenoveerd in 2024' (renovated in 2024).
Parking & Storage
Parking
The features section states 'Betaald parkeren en parkeervergunningen' (Paid parking and parking permits), indicating parking is available on the street.
Storage Room
The listing explicitly mentions a 'berging' (storage room) of approximately 8 m2 located in the 'onderbouw' (basement/substructure).
Garage
No garage is mentioned in the description or feature list.
Automatic Garage Door
There is no garage mentioned, so this feature is not present.
Double Garage
No garage is mentioned in the description or feature list.
Attic
The property is an apartment on the 'eerste etage' (first floor) with no mention of an attic.
Cellar
Although there is a storage room in the 'onderbouw' (substructure), it is listed as a 'berging' (storage room) rather than a distinct cellar.
Covered Parking
The listing specifies 'Betaald parkeren' (paid parking) and 'parkeervergunningen' (parking permits), which typically refers to street parking; no covered parking is mentioned.
Underground Parking
No underground parking is mentioned; the storage is located in the 'onderbouw' but this is for storage, not vehicles.
Workshop
No workshop is mentioned in the description or features.
Shed
The property is an apartment; while it has a storage room in the basement, it does not have a garden shed.
Street Parking Free
The features section explicitly states 'Betaald parkeren' (paid parking).
Street Parking Permit
The features section explicitly states 'parkeervergunningen' (parking permits).
Rules
Short Term Rentals Allowed
The listing explicitly states 'Zelfbewoningsplicht' (self-occupancy obligation), which typically prohibits renting out the property for both short and long term.
Long Term Rentals Allowed
The listing explicitly states 'Zelfbewoningsplicht' (self-occupancy obligation), which requires the owner to live in the property, thereby restricting long-term rentals.
Owners Association
The listing mentions 'Goed functionerende, actieve Vereniging van Eigenaars' and specifies a monthly contribution of €105,-.
Leasehold
The listing states 'Gelegen op eigen grond', meaning the property is on owned land (freehold) and not subject to leasehold (erfpacht).
Oa Chamber Of Commerce Registered
The 'VvE checklist' in the features section indicates 'Inschrijving KvK' is 'Ja'.
Oa Annual Meeting
The 'VvE checklist' in the features section indicates 'Jaarlijkse vergadering' is 'Ja'.
Oa Fees
The listing states there is a VvE contribution of '€ 105,- per maand'.
Oa Reserve Fund
The 'VvE checklist' in the features section indicates 'Reservefonds aanwezig' is 'Ja'.
Oa Maintenance Plan
The 'VvE checklist' in the features section indicates 'Onderhoudsplan' is 'Ja'.
Oa Buildings Insurance
The 'VvE checklist' in the features section indicates 'Opstalverzekering' is 'Ja'.
Other Rules
The listing mentions 'Zelfbewoningsplicht' (self-occupancy obligation) and that an 'ouderdomsclausule' (age clause) will be included in the purchase agreement.
Safety & Accessibility
Elevator
The description explicitly mentions access via an 'open portiek' and a 'stone staircase' ('stenen trap') to the first floor. There is no mention of an elevator, which is consistent with the 1938 build year and architectural style described.
Private Entrance
The property is accessed via a shared 'open portiek' (porch) and staircase, indicating it does not have a street-level private entrance.
Automatic Gate
The parking situation is described as 'paid parking and parking permits', implying public street parking rather than a private gated driveway.
Gated Community
The property is located in a standard residential neighborhood ('Blijdorp') with open access ('open portiek') and street parking, indicating it is not a gated community.
Wheelchair Accessible
The apartment is located on the first floor ('Eerste etage') and is accessible only via a 'stone staircase' with no elevator mentioned, making it inaccessible for wheelchairs without significant modification.
Utilities & Technical
Laundry Room
The layout describes a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. There is no mention of a dedicated laundry room or utility space inside the apartment. The storage is located in the basement.
Smart Home
The listing emphasizes the 1930s character ('jaren '30-sfeer') and charm, alongside standard modern renovations (kitchen 2024, HR boiler 2017). No smart home features (smart thermostat, lighting, etc.) are mentioned.
Water Softener
Water softeners are not standard features in Dutch apartments and are not mentioned in the listing. Given the building age (1938) and the specific amenities listed, it is safe to conclude this feature is absent.
Energy Efficiency
Solar Panels
Solar panels are not mentioned in the description or the list of features. The property is heated by a gas boiler (HR-ketel), and there is no reference to PV installations.
Double Glazing
The listing explicitly states 'Volledig voorzien van dubbele beglazing (HR++)' (Fully equipped with double glazing HR++) in the description and 'dubbel glas' in the features table.
Triple Glazing
The listing specifies double glazing (HR++). Triple glazing is typically a selling point that would be mentioned if present, and usually designated as HR+++.
Wall Insulation
Wall insulation is not listed in the 'Isolatie' (Insulation) section of the features, which only mentions roof insulation and double glazing. Additionally, the building is a protected cityscape from 1938, making external wall insulation unlikely.
Floor Insulation
Floor insulation is not listed in the 'Isolatie' (Insulation) section of the features, which only mentions roof insulation and double glazing.
Roof Insulation
The features table explicitly lists 'Dakisolatie' (Roof insulation) under the Isolation section.
Heat Pump
The listing specifies 'Verwarming en warm water middels HR-ketel' (Heating and hot water via HR combi-boiler), indicating a gas heating system rather than a heat pump.
Home Battery
No home battery is mentioned. As there are no solar panels listed, a home battery is highly unlikely to be present.
Other Energy Efficiency Measures
The property features a modern HR-ketel (High Efficiency boiler) installed in 2017 and has an Energy Label C.
Location
History
No history available for this listing.