Uncover the vibrant city of Amsterdam, guided by the curated lens of designer and illustrator, Chloe Dimopoulos. From the bustling markets and picturesque canals to aesthetic galleries and charming parks, Chloe shares an insider’s perspective on her neighbourhood’s go-to spots and hidden gems.
Chloe wears the Cashmere V Neck and Floyd Pant.
In your local neighbourhood, what are your go-to spots?
I live in West on Ten Katestraat. There is a daily market on my street with fresh produce, food stalls and flowers. There are plenty of outdoor bars so you can pull up a seat and observe all the eclectic characters. LOT61 and Fuku are my favourite places for coffee, they both roast their own beans. My bakery pick is Loof. The bread is delicious and I often sit out the front with a pastry and sketch people.
Amsterdam is home to a vibrant community of artisans across the design spectrum. When it comes to homewares, where do you recommend?
It still bewilders me that the antiques here are actually antique and not just overpriced porcelain from Bowral. I’ve found some beautiful paintings and rugs at Waterlooplein, but be prepared to haggle. My favourite antique stores are Leeelijk on Westerstraat (there’s also a fabric market here every Monday) and Antiekcentrum on Elandsgracht. For anything mid-century modern, Neef Louis is good but expensive. Places I love but can’t afford include X+L Amsterdam, Groen+Akker, and the Vitra Circle store that just opened up in Zaandam.
Chloe wears the Bianca Blouse.
Your illustrations beautifully capture small moments from everyday life. Where do you go for inspiration?
There’s a fantastic bookshop near the centre, Athenaeum Boekhandel, that has everything from classic literature to fashion magazines to independently run publications. After visiting the bookstore, I like to wander through the strip of market stalls directly opposite because I always find the best second-hand art books.
When looking for respite from the city, I head to Huis Marseille, a 17th century French residence turned photography gallery. It has a library nook and an internal courtyard surrounded by magnolias.
A city world famous for its galleries and museums. Do you have any lesser known favourite spots?
Foam and Stedlijk are worth visiting. Madé van Krimpen’s eponymous gallery is small but she has a great sense of curation. Honestly, I’m predominantly inspired by the community of contemporary artists and designers that surround me at Random and Rika Studios.
Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals and distinct architecture. Where do you recommend for visitors wanting to experience the city's rich design history?
I know it’s touristy but De 9 Straatjes and Jordaan really are beautiful. Having a drink anywhere alongside the canals is sublime.
Chloe wears the Florentine Cashmere Shirt Jacket & Bella Skirt.
Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s most famous parks, are there any other parks you enjoy?
It was such a treat witnessing the shift into Spring, everything suddenly became so verdant. It’s not big but I always enjoy visiting Sarphatipark when I’m in De Pijp. We also attempted to see the cherry blossoms at Bloesempark/Amsterdam Bos but unfortunately were too late.. they’re only in bloom for a few weeks. Next year!
Chloe wears the Maddy Racerback Dress.
What does the perfect evening in Amsterdam look like to you?
If you manage to get a table, Café Soundgarden's outdoor area is always fun on a sunny afternoon. I would then get dinner at Binnenvisser, a small plates restaurant that’s the perfect place for catching up with friends.
If you had one insider tip for getting the most out of the city what do you recommend?
Don’t line up at those gaudy chip shops.
Photographer: Tor Wills
Uncover the vibrant city of Amsterdam, guided by the curated lens of designer and illustrator, Chloe Dimopoulos. From the bustling markets and picturesque canals to aesthetic galleries and charming parks, Chloe shares an insider’s perspective on her neighbourhood’s go-to spots and hidden gems.
Chloe wears the Cashmere V Neck and Floyd Pant.
In your local neighbourhood, what are your go-to spots?
I live in West on Ten Katestraat. There is a daily market on my street with fresh produce, food stalls and flowers. There are plenty of outdoor bars so you can pull up a seat and observe all the eclectic characters. LOT61 and Fuku are my favourite places for coffee, they both roast their own beans. My bakery pick is Loof. The bread is delicious and I often sit out the front with a pastry and sketch people.
Amsterdam is home to a vibrant community of artisans across the design spectrum. When it comes to homewares, where do you recommend?
It still bewilders me that the antiques here are actually antique and not just overpriced porcelain from Bowral. I’ve found some beautiful paintings and rugs at Waterlooplein, but be prepared to haggle. My favourite antique stores are Leeelijk on Westerstraat (there’s also a fabric market here every Monday) and Antiekcentrum on Elandsgracht. For anything mid-century modern, Neef Louis is good but expensive. Places I love but can’t afford include X+L Amsterdam, Groen+Akker, and the Vitra Circle store that just opened up in Zaandam.
Chloe wears the Bianca Blouse.
Your illustrations beautifully capture small moments from everyday life. Where do you go for inspiration?
There’s a fantastic bookshop near the centre, Athenaeum Boekhandel, that has everything from classic literature to fashion magazines to independently run publications. After visiting the bookstore, I like to wander through the strip of market stalls directly opposite because I always find the best second-hand art books.
When looking for respite from the city, I head to Huis Marseille, a 17th century French residence turned photography gallery. It has a library nook and an internal courtyard surrounded by magnolias.
A city world famous for its galleries and museums. Do you have any lesser known favourite spots?
Foam and Stedlijk are worth visiting. Madé van Krimpen’s eponymous gallery is small but she has a great sense of curation. Honestly, I’m predominantly inspired by the community of contemporary artists and designers that surround me at Random and Rika Studios.
Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals and distinct architecture. Where do you recommend for visitors wanting to experience the city's rich design history?
I know it’s touristy but De 9 Straatjes and Jordaan really are beautiful. Having a drink anywhere alongside the canals is sublime.
Chloe wears the Florentine Cashmere Shirt Jacket & Bella Skirt.
Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s most famous parks, are there any other parks you enjoy?
It was such a treat witnessing the shift into Spring, everything suddenly became so verdant. It’s not big but I always enjoy visiting Sarphatipark when I’m in De Pijp. We also attempted to see the cherry blossoms at Bloesempark/Amsterdam Bos but unfortunately were too late.. they’re only in bloom for a few weeks. Next year!
Chloe wears the Maddy Racerback Dress.
What does the perfect evening in Amsterdam look like to you?
If you manage to get a table, Café Soundgarden's outdoor area is always fun on a sunny afternoon. I would then get dinner at Binnenvisser, a small plates restaurant that’s the perfect place for catching up with friends.
If you had one insider tip for getting the most out of the city what do you recommend?
Don’t line up at those gaudy chip shops.
Photographer: Tor Wills