The Architect Behind Amsterdam’s Oldest Bakery: Gerrit van Arkel

Before you step inside Hans Egstorf—our bakery on Spuistraat—you’ll likely pause and look up. Not just because of the scent of fresh bread and caramel in the air, but because of the building itself. With its elegant curves and ornate façade, it quietly commands attention. And rightly so: this is one of Amsterdam’s architectural gems, designed in 1898 by Gerrit van Arkel.

Today, it houses the city’s oldest operational bakery. But long before our stroopwafels won hearts around the world, this address was already something special.

The Man Behind the Brickwork

Gerrit A. van Arkel was born in 1858 in Loenen aan de Vecht. The son of a large family, he showed early promise, even taking evening classes in architectural drawing while working for carpenters and construction firms in Baarn and Amsterdam. At just 17, he became a teacher in architectural design and later joined the office of G.B. Salm, contributing to projects like the Artis Aquarium, the Amstel Brewery, and what is now the iconic Paradiso music venue.

By age 23, Van Arkel had launched his own architectural practice. His early work with partner W. Wilkens included several private residences, one of which still stands as a national heritage site.

But it was in the 1890s that Van Arkel’s distinctive Art Nouveau style truly flourished. His signature could be seen across the city: the Keizersgracht 766 residence (1894), the Helios building near Spui (1897), our very own bakery on Spuistraat 274 (1898), the Astoria office building (1905), and the Asscher Diamond Factory (1907), among others. His final design, from 1919, hinted at the influence of the Amsterdam School.

Van Arkel passed away in 1918 in Abcoude. Today, many of his buildings are protected as national or municipal monuments, each one a chapter of Amsterdam’s architectural story.

A Building Worth a Second Look

Every day, our bakers step into a space that embodies patience, detail, and timeless craftsmanship. The same values that echo through everything we do, right down to our stroopwafels. It’s no wonder many visitors leave with not just a warm waffle, but a photo of the façade too.

And we love seeing it through your eyes. So if you’ve captured our bakery’s details (or your first bite of a caramel-stuffed classic), don’t forget to tag us @HansEgstorf on Instagram. We’ll be admiring it from behind the counter.