Krotwoning, Postkantoor, Museumwoning: An Exhibition on Social Housing History at Museum Het Schip

Explore the ideals of the Amsterdam School and the harsh living conditions of workers that preceded them through three distinct sections: a recreated slum dwelling, a restored 1920s post office interior, and a furnished museum apartment. Guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into this history of social housing.

This exhibition delves into the history of social housing in the Netherlands, contrasting the abysmal living conditions of early 20th-century urban workers with the aspirations of the Amsterdam School movement. The exhibition is divided into three key areas: The 'Krotwoning' (Slum Dwelling) section features a life-size reconstruction of a 16-square-meter slum dwelling, offering a visceral understanding of the cramped and unhealthy environments families, like one with seven children, endured before the Woningwet (Housing Act) of 1901. This part highlights the critical need for and the subsequent development of social housing initiatives. The 'Postkantoor' (Post Office) showcases the only fully preserved interior design by Michel de Klerk from the Amsterdam School. This space, characterized by its unique architectural features, intense color palette, and original stained glass, has been meticulously restored. An accompanying exhibition details the history of this remarkable post office. The 'Museumwoning' (Museum Apartment) presents a worker's apartment furnished as it would have been in the 1920s within the iconic Het Schip complex. It aims to provide insight into the significant improvements in living standards brought about by the Woningwet, contextualizing it against modern amenities like televisions and bathrooms that are now commonplace.

Tickets are required for entry, and guided tours, which explore the slum dwelling, post office, and museum apartment, can be added for free or a small surcharge depending on the ticket type. Tours depart hourly from 12:00 PM, with the last tour at 4:00 PM. The 3:00 PM tour is conducted in English.