Modern Gesamtkunstwerk

Sonneveld House is a fine example of a modern Gesamtkunstwerk. The architecture, interior design and furnishings form a total concept, carefully tuned to and enhancing each other. The architects Brinkman & Van der Vlugt worked closely with their client, whose lifestyle, wishes and preferences were considered in the design. The colours of the rooms and the technical facilities were chosen in consultation with the family. For example, Gé’s and Puck’s rooms were decorated in their favourite colours: yellow and blue respectively. The architects planned the furnishing and decorations down to the smallest detail. Design drawings even indicate precisely where paintings were to be hung. Van der Vlugt made certain pieces of furniture specially for the interior, such as the sofa in the studio, which also serves as storage. That they were able to devote so much time and attention to the design was due to the economic depression at the time: the crisis resulting from the Wall Street Crash of 1929 meant the architects had few large commissions.