SALOON ON THE SINGEL

The reception room on the bel-etage of the rear house has remained largely intact since its construction around 1745. This is remarkable, considering the extensive alterations carried out by the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and the fire of 1963. In consultation with M&A, a historic paint and color investigation was conducted, followed by the preparation of a restoration plan.

The richly ornamented stucco ceiling was carefully restored after the removal of a thick accumulation of paint layers. The original velvet wall covering, discovered within four wall panels, was dismantled, cleaned, and reinstated. The finish of the wooden paneling was reconstructed according to the color scheme dating from around 1750. Paint layers were thinned, the woodwork was repaired, and the surfaces were finished with traditional linseed oil paint. The interior faces of the window shutters were treated with a historic mixture of smalt and lead white pigments.

The wall sections were fitted with new textile wall coverings, designed to match the scale, color, and character of the original interior. A historic archive pattern was specially adapted for the Singel property in a blue ground color that harmonizes with the shutters. An antique chandelier completes the ensemble.