De Bary
Situated along Amsterdam's prestigious Golden Bend, Chapter No. 11- Herengracht 448-458 brings together six monumental canal houses, each with its own remarkable history. Dating back to the 17th century, these grand residences were once home to some of the city's most influential merchants, bankers and mayors. Behind their elegant facades lies a fascinating collection of architectural styles, extraordinary interiors and stories spanning more than 350 years.
At Herengracht 448, a distinctive layout connects the front and rear houses through a passage framed by light courts.
Originally built in 1671, the property underwent a remarkable transformation around 1790, resulting in richly decorated reception rooms, intricate plasterwork and an exquisite overdoor painting by Adriaan de Lelie.
Next door, Herengracht 450 was designed by celebrated architect Philips Vingboons for wealthy merchant Joseph Deutz, whose impressive art collection included paintings by Rembrandt, Jordaens and Lievens. Its grand rooms still reflect the elegance of 18th-century Amsterdam.
Herengracht 452 and 454 were originally built as a symmetrical pair in 1680. Although centuries of alterations have given them very different appearances, their shared origins remain an important part of the complex's character.
Number 452 is particularly notable for its surviving Rococo interiors, with ornamental plaster ceilings, an elegant spiral staircase and decorative details dating from 1767.
Herengracht 456, historically known as the Burgemeestershuis, or Mayor's House, owes its name to the prominent Amsterdam mayors who once called it home. Built in 1671 for Joan Corver, who served as mayor on 19 separate occasions, the residence continued to house influential figures in the city's history. Its magnificent early 19th-century Empire-style interiors, with elaborate ceilings, marble fireplaces and classical ornamentation, remain among the property's most remarkable features.
Completing the ensemble is Herengracht 458, once home to the renowned art gallery of Jacques Goudstikker. From 1927, the building became a celebrated destination for art lovers and collectors, housing an extraordinary collection of Old Master paintings. The house itself retains an impressive 19th-century staircase and richly decorated historic interiors, reflecting the elegance and artistic heritage of this remarkable address.
The buildings entered a new chapter in 1921, when banking company H. Albert de Bary acquired Herengracht 450. Over the following decades, the company gradually brought the six properties together, connecting the houses internally and transforming them into one extensive banking and office complex. De Bary became fully owned by Deutsche Bank in 1988, and the complex continued to serve as its Amsterdam headquarters until 2007.
Beyond the facades, a secluded sanctuary - the largest office garden in Amsterdam's city center - offers another glimpse into the past. Hidden here is a rare, double garden house dating from around 1680 that originally belonged to Herengracht 452 and 454, serving as a tranquil reminder of the expansive grounds that once accompanied these grand residences.
Today, De Bary Buildings tell a story of Amsterdam's evolution, from the grandeur of the Golden Age to the rise of international business.
Six distinctive houses, centuries of history and an extraordinary collection of architectural details come together at one of the city's most prestigious addresses.
As Chapter No. 11, this remarkable ensemble continues its story, bringing centuries of heritage into a new era.
On-site Amenities
Meeting Room
Welcoming Lobby
Coffee Bar
Concierge Services
Shower
Community
Mindfulness & Yoga
Restaurant
Garden
Board Room
Shared E-bikes
Nursing Room
Conference & Training Room
Personal Trainer
Gym
Event Space
Phone Booths
Covered Bike Storage
Frequently asked questions?
How do I get to Chapter No. 11 by public transport?
The building is within walking distance of tram stops Koningsplein and Spui, served by tram lines 2, 11 and 12. The Rokin metro station (North/South line) is just a few minutes away on foot, providing a direct 1-minute connection to Amsterdam Central Station.
Is there parking at Chapter No. 11?
There is ample public parking available in the immediate vicinity.
What’s the neighbourhood around Chapter No. 11 like?
Situated on the prestigious Herengracht, the area is elegant and central. You’re close to Koningsplein, Spui, and De Negen Straatjes, surrounded by high-end boutiques, cafés, galleries, and cultural landmarks. It’s a refined yet lively part of the city.
What makes Chapter No. 11 unique?
Chapter No. 11 is a collection of six monumental canal houses in Amsterdam’s prestigious Golden Bend. Dating back to the Dutch Golden Age, the buildings combine historic architecture and elegant interiors with modern workspaces and hospitality. Members can enjoy inspiring meeting rooms, a stylish brasserie and bar, and one of the largest gardens in Amsterdam’s canal district, creating a distinctive place to work, meet and connect in the heart of the city.