Dutch homes are a fascinating blend of practicality, history, and quirky charm. From their impossibly steep stairs to their curtain-free windows, here are ten surprising facts about Dutch homes that will make you look at them in a whole new light.

1. The stairs are basically ladders

Dutch stairs are famously steep and narrow, so much so that climbing them can feel like scaling a mountain. This design dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries when houses were taxed based on the width of their facades. To save money, homes were built tall and narrow, with stairs that took up minimal space.

Moving furniture? Forget the stairs! Most people use pulleys to hoist items through windows instead. Speaking of…

2. Hooks on the roof

Ever noticed those hooks sticking out from Dutch gables (see photo below)? They’re not decorative – they’re functional! These hooks, called “gevelstenen”, were historically used to move goods and furniture into upper floors, especially in narrow canal houses where interior stairs were impractical.

The feature is so iconic that many older buildings have kept their hooks, and although it’s more rare to catch a couch on a pulley these days, don’t count it out!

Traditional Dutch houses in Amsterdam with large windows, no curtains, and hooks built into the roof.

3. No curtains, no secrets

Walking through a Dutch neighborhood, you’ll notice something unusual: open windows with no curtains. The traditional explanation? Protestant Calvinist values of transparency and honesty… after all, if you have nothing to hide, why block the view? The practical explanation? Natural light is precious in a country with many cloudy days.

We enjoyed this video by ‘Visiting the Dutch Countryside’ which dives into the many reasons the Dutch aren’t big on blocking their windows!

4. Compact living is an art form

Space is at a premium in the Netherlands, and Dutch homes reflect this reality. Compact living solutions like multifunctional furniture and hidden storage are common. This minimalist approach not only maximizes space but also aligns with sustainability goals.

5. Huge windows for maximum light

Dutch homes often feature large windows at the front and back to let in as much light as possible. This design choice originated in canal houses of the Golden Age, where deep interiors needed natural light to reach every corner.

6. The inspection shelf (yes, in the toilet)

Here’s a quirky one: older Dutch toilets often have an “inspection shelf.” This flat platform allows users to inspect their… contributions before flushing. In older years, people would check for parasites and other nasty things to make sure their health was in top shape. It’s a relic of older plumbing designs but still surprises newcomers. Some people prefer them because it helps to avoid, as one Redditor called it, “Poseidon’s kiss”. We’ll move on to spare you that mental image.

7. Bikes everywhere… even indoors

The Dutch love their bikes so much that they often store them in hallways or even living rooms. With limited outdoor space, it’s not uncommon for bikes to become part of the home décor. In a country that’s known for spots of rain, too, it definitely helps to avoid water damage and rust.

8. Birthday calendars in bathrooms

Sorry, we’re not quite done with the bathroom! A uniquely Dutch tradition is hanging birthday calendars (”verjaardagskalendar”) in bathrooms. Why? No one really knows, but it ensures you’ll never forget your aunt’s special day while you’re inspecting that morning’s… you get the idea.

9. Built on water (literally)

Many Dutch homes are built on reclaimed land or marshy soil, supported by wooden poles driven deep into the ground. This engineering marvel keeps buildings stable despite soft foundations. Without ingenious inventions like this, over a third of the Netherlands we know and love today would still be below sea level. They’re called the nether lands for a reason!

10. Front windows as displays

Dutch windows (without curtains, as we know!) are often decorated with flowers, vases, or other ornaments, turning them into mini galleries for passersby to admire. It’s a charming way to blend private and public life, and often makes the street much more picturesque and friendly.

These quirks make Dutch homes truly unique – and navigating them is an adventure all its own! If you’re thinking about renting a home in the Netherlands, let Rentbird help you find your perfect match (without breaking your neck on those stairs!). Our automated search, using our AI search bots, check for listings that match your criteria 24/7 so you don’t have to. Your dream rental (toilet shelf included) is just a search away!

Amy Worgan

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