Wolbert Vroom started his agency in 1988, with a drafting table and a typewriter, above a former carpet store on Kerkstraat in Amsterdam. Since 1998, Architectenbureau Vroom has been located in several 17th-century weaver houses on Vijzelgracht.

Inspiration
“The ‘love for the profession’ tops the priorities of my agency. The original structure of canal houses and the (re-)discovery of monumental elements serve as a starting point and form the basis for designing and rearranging. It’s fascinating to see that proportions and dimensions were even applied in the smallest houses. The centuries-old canal houses remain my source of inspiration.”

Education and Specialization
Wolbert studied Architecture at Delft University of Technology. After completing his military service, he gained experience in interior design and restoration at two Amsterdam firms before starting his own practice. Restoration attracted him the most, and Architectenbureau Vroom has specialized in this field.

Apart from running his agency architecture books are his passion. Favorites include: Vitruvius, Andrea Palladio, Vincenzo Scamozzi, Pieter Post, and Jacob van Campen. Last but not least, Wolbert plays basketball twice a week, which keeps him in shape, just like taking long walks with his wife Barbara.