10 Things to Do in Rietveld Schröder House - Utrecht, Netherlands
The Rietveld Schröder House in Utrecht, Netherlands is a modernist masterpiece and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture and design. Built in 1924, the house was designed by the Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld and is considered one of the most important examples of the De Stijl movement. Here are 10 things to do when you visit this iconic landmark.
1. Take a Guided Tour: The best way to experience the Rietveld Schröder House is to take a guided tour. Visitors can learn about the history of the house, its design, and the people who lived there. Tours are available in both English and Dutch and last about an hour.
2. Admire the Exterior: The exterior of the house is a perfect example of De Stijl, with its simple lines, bright colors, and geometric shapes. Visitors can admire the house from the outside and take photos of its unique design.
3. Visit the Garden: The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which was designed by the Dutch landscape architect Mien Ruys. The garden features a variety of plants, trees, and shrubs, as well as a pond.
4. Explore the Interior: Inside the house, visitors can explore the different rooms and see how they were designed. The house is filled with furniture and objects from the De Stijl movement, including chairs by Rietveld and paintings by Piet Mondrian.
5. Learn About the House’s History: The house was designed for Truus Schröder-Schräder, a single mother and progressive thinker. Visitors can learn about her life and how she influenced the design of the house.
6. Attend a Lecture: The Rietveld Schröder House regularly hosts lectures and workshops on topics related to architecture and design. These events are open to the public and provide an opportunity to learn more about the house and the De Stijl movement.
7. Enjoy a Picnic: The garden is a great place to enjoy a picnic. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks or purchase refreshments from the café.
8. Shop at the Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a variety of items related to the house and the De Stijl movement, including books, posters, and souvenirs.
9. Attend a Concert: The house often hosts classical music concerts and other live performances. These events are a great way to experience the house in a different way.
10. Visit the Café: The café at the Rietveld Schröder House offers a variety of snacks and drinks. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while admiring the views of the garden.
The Rietveld Schröder House is a unique landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture and design. With its unique design, beautiful garden, and interesting history, there is plenty to explore at this iconic landmark.