Welcome to the Vrije Academie, a beautiful event venue in the heart of Amsterdam!
This listed canal house on the Herengracht has a rich history and authentic appearance. The property was thoroughly renovated and renamed Huis Vasari in 2021. It is home to the Vrije Academie; the largest arts and cultural education organisation in the Netherlands.
The venue plays host to our own programme, but that’s not the only trick up this beautiful building’s sleeve. All rooms are for rent, allowing everyone to discover this gem on the Herengracht for themselves! How about a meeting in the authentic 17th-century kitchen or a celebratory dinner under Jacob de Wit’s original ceiling paintings? We have the perfect space for every party, for every need and for every wish. mogelijk. Alle zalen zijn te huur, zo kan iedereen deze parel aan de Herengracht zelf ontdekken! Van vergaderen in een authentieke 17e-eeuwse keuken tot aan feestelijk dineren onder de originele plafondschilderingen van Jacob de Wit. Wij hebben voor elk gezelschap, en voor elke wens de perfecte ruimte.
Special history
Huis Vasari is a listed building with a rich history. It was originally built in the 17th century to the design of Amsterdam architect Philips Vingboons, commissioned by Jacob Cromhout. The two joined properties were therefore known as the Cromhouthuizen. Jacob’s grandson commissioned then unknown painter Jacob de Wit (1695-1754) to decorate the residence. His ceiling paintings can still be seen in their original state, just like other original features such as the staircase – perhaps the finest staircase in Amsterdam – and the two 17th-century kitchens.
Multifunctional canal house
The Vrije Academie is home to several meeting rooms, a workshop studio and multiple small break-out rooms, suitable for groups of 4 to 120 people. The property also features an exhibition space, (museum) shop and café: Bar Vasari, where you can take a seat in the hidden garden during summer. The large rooms all feature a theatre layout as standard and are furnished with audiovisual equipment. All rooms can be converted to suit your needs. The building has a maximum capacity of 500 people.
