A.H. Gerhardhuis

A.H. Gerhardhuis stands in Amsterdam as a modernist building shaped by communal living and humanist social ideals. Willem van Tijen designed it in 1959, using simple lines and functional spaces typical of the period. Its architecture gives shared rooms a central role beside smaller private rooms.

The building began as the Netherlands’ first retirement home founded on humanist principles for non-religious older residents. Freethinkers and the Humanistisch Verbond developed the idea around 1950, when religious organisations ran most retirement homes. Residents from various left-leaning clubs once gave the place its nickname, “red bastion.” Over time, people of every background could live there, regardless of belief or political view.

After serving as a care home until 2013, the building became housing for young people and students. Its municipal monument status protects original architectural features during changes and future redevelopment. Communal rooms once hosted meals, gatherings and funeral services, preserving a clear link between care, community and housing.