a visit to...woonbeurs, amsterdam, part 2

Woonbeurs...part 2

On my last post I featured some shots from the very inspiring VT Wonen barn at Woonbeurs, so today I'd like to share some pictures from the rest of the fair with you. As with all trade fairs and exhibitions, a huge amount of thought goes into stand design and display. I put together a stand with 7 roomsets for the Ideal Home Show in 2002 and spent a solid month, working 16 hour days to pull everything together, so I really appreciate the work put in by all the magazines and exhibitors at Woonbeurs.

Each stand had its own theme, decorated and accessorised in the magazine's signature style. Interior Designers, stylists and architects were also on hand for pre-booked complimentary consultations in the 'Architectenplein' pods-brilliant! And I have to comment on the food available at Woonbeurs. I'm afraid to say it puts our bog-standard trade fair offerings well and truly to shame. VT Wonen had an on-site bakery and cafe; we indulged in the most incredible salad and open top sandwiches I have ever tasted (couldn't resist a couple of pics below!); a dedicated chocolate and coffee cafe-divine; amazing juices and smoothies...the list goes on. Take plenty of cash-it will be worth it ;-)

The show is split into 3 different, but inter-connecting halls and easily do-able in a day, but don't make the same mistake as I did and just fly in-fly out (having said that, if a day trip is your only option, the RAI centre is a few stops on the train from the airport and only costs 2 euros one way-you really can't go wrong). After the show, it's just a 10 minute tram ride into the city. As everyone knows, you need at least 3 days to discover the numerous museums, sights, cafes, restaurants and one-off shops that are unique to Amsterdam. It's a compact city and a pleasure to walk around, with street cafe culture on almost every corner. So if you plan to visit Woonbeurs next year, make sure you incorporate a few extra days to get a real feel for the Dutch capital.

There's a list of the magazines who took part in the show below, along with the Instagram link from the show. Enjoy!

Our lunch!!!

If you see a picture of your stand or products here and would like me to add your link, please just let me
know! For some inspiring daily reads, check out the following great Dutch titles:

101woonideeen
ariadne at home
vt wonen
more than classic
eigen huis & interieur
home and garden
seasons

The hugely talented stylist and blogger Desiree of vosges paris has posted about her favourite parts of the show and has also put together an invaluable design city guide amsterdam next-a must for all design lovers.

And just to finish off this longer-than-average post: a HUGE thank you to Pip McCormac of  RED Magazine on-line for including me in his Top Interior Design Blogs, along with just the greatest list of design bloggers out there-I feel very honoured and it has made my week !!