Monday, July 10, 2017

Possibly the coolest store I've ever visited - Raw Materials in Amsterdam

On a whim, Tonia and I stopped into this interesting looking store as we set out for our first full day in Amsterdam. I am so glad that we did! It is quite possibly the coolest store I've ever visited in my life, and I don't say that lightly.

Take a look at some of the delicious photos I took as we browsed around:





All of the sales clerks spoke English very well and were helpful but not overpowering. They even explained the shipping process to us in case we wanted to buy something large and/or bulky. I was impressed at how friendly and kind they all were. In fact, my sales clerk even wrapped up the item I bought after I told her it was a gift for myself. She said I deserved a pretty package to open when I got home. (How cute, right?!)  Before I left, they even gave me a Dutch design magazine and some postcards that they offer as their business cards. I almost refused the magazine since I don't read Dutch, but the clerk implored me to take it because the photographs were so inspiring in it. How did she know the way to my heart? I mean, I carried that heavy magazine around for the next ten hours, so I hope it was worth it. I could imagine myself decoupaging items from it on some crafty project, so I hope I can bring that image to life somehow. Haha!














I drooled over and caressed these cushion covers (and matching plant bags) for a ridiculously long time but just couldn't justify the suitcase space they would've taken up if I'd bought some. Sigh. I kind of already regret that.




Of course, this is just a sampling of their fabulous displays and items for sale. It was three floors of shopping with multiple rooms that just kept winding around in the building space. Every time I turned a corner, it was like stumbling onto another treasure trove. It sort of reminded me of a World Market meets Country Living kind of place except I think some of the furniture was truly old and not just reproduction pieces.




And, yes, before you ask, I did buy a little something, something. I'll share my purchases with you all when I get home from my European adventure. Suffice it to say that I adore the little treat I bought myself and could have easily spent thousands of euros in this store if money and shipping were no object. Yes, they do have an online store too. If you'd like to check it out, visit them at http://www.rawmaterials.nl/. It was a totally dreamy place, man. I wanted pretty much everything in the whole store.

**No kickbacks or sponsorships led to this particular blog post; I spent about 30 euros in the shop, but they don't know I'm alive otherwise. ;)

4 comments:

  1. It does look like a super fun store to look around and it's almost more fun since it was serendipity that caused you to stop in. I'm glad you bought yourself something and can see why you were tempted by the bright fun fabric items. So enjoying all of your photos!!!

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  2. I think I could just move in there! :)

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  3. Oh my goodness! I want to move in (just like Tracy said). It's gorgeous! Thanks for sharing. :-)

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  4. I'm a new listener to your show and I am madly listening - I was going backwards in order, but that didn't seem to make sense so I jumped forward - I've heard the squirrel story all out of order, but it's still funny. You two crack me up. I just listened to the most current show (you have just returned home) and it inspired me to come view your blog and pictures. I think Amsterdam and this store are now on my bucket list! My husband will be going with work in the near future and I think I may have to tag along! Thanks for sharing!

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