Barbara de Vries and Tinka Heinzel are Dutch interior designers and co-founders of Heinzel De Vries, an Amsterdam‑based studio known for delivering interiors that are both functional and beautifully tailored to client identity. With over 30 years of combined design experience, they have worked on projects ranging from boutique cafés and hotels to museum interiors and retail spaces. Their hallmark is a refined, timeless aesthetic rooted in natural materials that evolve with age, balanced with a strong sense of atmosphere and personal authenticity. Their recent work includes Et Claire (Amsterdam and Antwerp)—a viennoiserie concept where warm buttery tones, velvets, brass, and soft layering evoke the tactile qualities of laminated dough. They’ve also contributed to the interiors of Efteling Grand Hotel in the Netherlands, translating the park’s whimsy and storytelling into spaces filled with organic forms, bold color palettes, and narrative detailing. Through these projects and many others listed across their portfolio—from hotels and restaurants to residences and retail—Barbara and Tinka continue to craft environments where material character, emotional resonance, and client identity converge.
What inspires you?
Everything around us. Just strolling through the city, people, restaurants, stores, movies, Instagram, and art.
What inspired you to become a designer?
A deep love for aesthetics and a strong sensitivity to atmosphere. From a young age, we were drawn to beautiful, well‑designed spaces and objects, and realized how much they could influence the way we feel and interact with the world around us. That emotional connection to design is what inspired us to become designers. We want to create experiences that not only look good but also feel right.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
Our design philosophy is centered around creating timeless designs that reflect and enhance the identity of the client. We believe a space should not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also feel authentic and personal. Our goal is always to create environments that feel ‘right’, where everything comes together naturally and where people truly feel comfortable.
What is your favorite project?
We’re very lucky to work with a wide variety of clients, each with their own unique style and vision. That diversity makes every project special in its own way. Our favorite projects are always the ones where there’s real synergy between us and the client. When ideas flow naturally and the collaboration leads to a result that exceeds expectations. Seeing our clients truly happy with the outcome is the most rewarding part.
What is your favorite detail?
We don’t have one single favorite detail, but we really love the kind of details that don’t immediately stand out. The ones that require a lot of precision and thought, yet quietly make a big difference in the overall design. Things like invisible doors or tile patterns that align perfectly. These subtle elements may go unnoticed at first glance, but they’re what bring a space to a higher level.
Do you have a favorite material?
We prefer working with ‘real’ materials—those with natural textures and imperfections. Even though they may come with certain drawbacks, like aging or developing stains over time, that’s exactly what gives them character. Materials that evolve and “live” with the space bring depth and authenticity that you simply can’t replicate with artificial alternatives.
What is your process for starting a new project?
Our process always starts with a conversation with the client. It’s important for us to really understand their wishes, ideas, and how they want to live or work in the space. Based on that initial exchange, we start shaping our own vision and with it, the identity of the space through moodboards, material suggestions, and first sketches. This forms the foundation for a design that feels personal, authentic, and truly aligned with the client.
How do you fuel your creativity?
Again, everything around us. Always pay attention and look around you.
What inspired Et Claire Viennoiserie?
The name and the viennoiserie products were already defined, as well as the deep yellow brand color. We took these elements as a starting point and translated them into an interior that feels rich and buttery, just like laminated dough. Soft, rounded shapes, a layered approach to materials, and a warm, golden color palette all came together to reflect the essence of viennoiserie in a subtle yet immersive way. The result is a strong, recognizable identity that offers visitors a sense of luxury and a moment of indulgence.
How did materiality shape Et Claire Viennoiserie?
Materiality at Et Claire is all about warm, rich yellow tones combined with beautiful textures and subtle sheen. We chose velour for the curved sofas, custom silk lamps that add elegance, and a brass counter that brings warmth and a touch of luxury. Together, these materials create a tactile and visually rich environment that perfectly complements the brand’s identity.
What advice would you give to young architects?
Follow your dreams! It is the best job in the world.
