As she was unable to come, Betty's husband Steve stayed 2 nights at Leentje's Green Terrace Studio in the heart of historic Amsterdam and writes this review.
Staying at Leentje's Green Terrace Studio was a wonderful experience, made even nicer by Leentje & Arnold's warm, considerate care. The Green Terrace Studio is on the 1st floor (2nd floor to Americans) directly across an alley from Zuiderkirk church's 215 feet tall steeple. Completed in 1602, Zuiderkirk is one of Europe's most iconic historic churches. Walking out the Studio's street door places you on the edge of Zuiderkirk's courtyard. A 2 minute walk across the courtyard puts you right at Amsterdam Metro's Neumarket Station's elevator, so it almost couldn't be more convenient or easier to access.
The room is as pictured, wonderfully light and tastefully furnished with updated flooring, fixtures & furniture - including many of fiber artist, Leentje's own beautiful artistic fabrics, pillows, curtains, etc. Green Terrace Studio's building was built around the same time as Zuiderkirk, so it too is around 500 years old. Fortunately updates like double glazed windows keep it warm, cozy, & quiet. I took advantage of the breakfasts provided but went around the corner to an excellent local cafe & beer bar recommended by Leentje for meals & beer. A broad array of restaurants & shops is only a couple of minute walk away. The immediate district rewards walking, biking & exploring.
Downsides? Just a few. The stairs are moderately steep but Arnold shleps your bags in & out for you. The toilet room is quite small and likely cramped for those with long limbs. If you don't mind leaving its door open into the private bathroom hallway, this needn't be an issue. The shower is great, but requires a little post-shower floor squeegeeing to avoid water build up as the floor is not level (who would guess in a 500 year old building?). Finally, while many would jump at the opportunity to be surrounded by the amazing sounds of the church bells and carillon just outside, others may not. Fortunately for them the hourly chimes stop at night. At worst, these inconveniences are a small historic price to pay for a truly memorable experience. At best they simply support your immersion into historic Dutch culture.
In addition to being a comfortable, historic experience, Green Terrace Studio is an excellent value. I can't wait to return. Thanks, Leentje & Arnold!
Steve Colburn