Architectural Design for Huis Kops, Haarlem - Abraham van der Hart

A precise architectural floor plan for Huis Kops in Haarlem, drafted by the Dutch architect Abraham van der Hart in 1794.

This architectural drawing by Abraham van der Hart depicts the floor plans for the first and second levels of Huis Kops, a residence located in Haarlem. Van der Hart, a prominent Dutch architect and city builder of the late eighteenth century, produced this technical document in 1794. The drawing provides a clear view of the spatial organisation typical of high-status urban dwellings during the period.

The composition is divided into two distinct sections, labelled as No. 1 and No. 2, representing the different storeys of the house. The lines are precise and clean, reflecting the disciplined approach required for professional architectural planning. The layout reveals a functional arrangement of rooms, including the vestibule, various chambers, and service areas. The inclusion of a scale bar at the bottom allows for an understanding of the proportions intended by the architect.

Van der Hart was known for his adherence to Neoclassical principles, which favoured symmetry and order. This drawing demonstrates his ability to translate these aesthetic values into practical living spaces. The use of ink and subtle wash creates a legible document that balances technical accuracy with a clean visual presentation. As a historical record, the piece offers insight into the domestic architecture of Haarlem at the end of the eighteenth century. It captures the specific requirements of a wealthy household, showing the separation between public reception areas and private living quarters. The document remains a valuable example of Dutch architectural drafting from the era, showing the meticulous planning that preceded the construction of such urban residences.