Design discoveries in Amsterdam

Thanks to Iceland's volcano, I got a few extra days in Amsterdam after my work was done. I love the city's daring design and individual style, from fashion to home decor. Here are some things I saw that inspire me.

Droog

This exciting place is more art gallery than store.

United Nude

Shoes here are designed by Dutch architect Rem D. Koolhaas. Take a close look at the heels, which are based on architectural/engineering concepts. I love how each shoe is lovingly displayed like an art object.

Specialty boutiques trump franchise stores

Often, when I go shopping around the world, be it Hong Kong or Tokyo, I see the same stores everywhere—the Gap, Guess, Levi's. Even if the names are different, designs look like copies of one another as they probably come from the same factories who just tag on a different label. So I love that Amsterdam has kept the franchise stores at bay. The city is full of little stores filled with interesting, unique items.

Here is a workshop at the back of a clothing store, where the store owner designs and sews his own creations.

Here's a particularly creative window display!

Design at home

Design is not just for the super rich—everyday Dutch folks put a lot of effort into decorating their house. Here's a stunning chandelier at a home we visited.