Appliances, Electronics and Hardware stores in Amsterdam
Because it is customary for the Dutch to do things themselves when it comes to construction and installation around the house, there are numerous appliance, electronic and hardware stores – many of which are part of large chains – scattered around Amsterdam. You should note that because so many individuals take care of their own household projects, you can purchase many less specific items and accessories related to technical, electrical or construction related work at supermarkets and outdoor markets, and other home styling, decorating and convenience-related shops. Due to the nature of the DIY industry that is predominant in Amsterdam, parts are typically offered in a wide variety (in terms of quality, value and design), so you will often encounter the object that you are looking for in many incarnations, for prices that are reasonable to those that are astronomical. Of course, there are certain discount retailers and chains that are known for their bargain prices and other stores, where quality is emphasized and prices reflect the high standard of the products that are offered.
Main Chains in Amsterdam
Hema
http://www.hema.nl located throughout the city
This is where you will find all your basic household appliances under one roof and for great value. It is also where you will find many other useful items that are related to the home, such as bedding, kitchen appliances such as blenders and irons, and decor, small furniture and furnishings, bathroom and washroom necessities, cleaning and mending supplies, hardware and electrical goods and more that is in the line of do it your self home work and repair, and decorating with ease. Additionally, this store offers a nice range of crafts for adults and kids, electronics for all ages, a photography desk or centre, and many items that are necessary for the greater outdoors, such as most things you will need when preparing for adventurous travels. Finally, at Hema, you will also find a nice selection of prepared foods and wines for the same amazing value as the rest of the variety of products.
Blokker
http://www.blokker.nl located throughout the city
Blokker is the ultimate in discount stores. Whether it’s a vacuum cleaner, a toaster, a new iron or a whole array of Buddha or fairy statues Blokker has it for low low prices. The bigger Blokker stores in the city centre also stock items like board games, DVDs, wastepaper bins, sweeping brushes and home improvement materials.
Praxis
http://www.praxis.nl located on the outskirts of the city
Like Blokker and Hema Praxis stocks middle of the range goods for generally low prices. However, Praxis offers more in the line of large households goods including lighting, hi-fi’s and stereo’s, heating and flooring as well as power tools and fitness equipment.
It’s
http://www.itsonline.nl located throughout the city centre
It’s deals mainly in household electronics including dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, TVs, music players, DVD players, refrigerators, and kitchen appliances. Prices vary and good deals are usually available but these stores tend towards mid-range budgets.
De Bijenkorf
http://http://www.debijenkorf.nl located on Damrak
De Bijenkorf is the luxury end of clothing, fashion and household goods. You will find interior design solutions, bathroom, kitchen and bedroom furniture and decorations here. Prices are high and the goods are of excellent quality.
Ikea
The ubiquitous one stop shop for everything your home needs (and a great deal that it doesn’t) has proven to be a big hit in the Netherlands. Ikea is also extremely popular among expats as their furniture and appliances tend to be cheap, easy to transport and reasonably stylish. The main branch for Amsterdam is near the Ajax stadium ArenA on the main south eastern metro line. Ikea have furniture, decorations, accessories, fittings and appliances in abundance as well as quality customer service and support.
Other Specific Places to Look
Aurora http://www.aurora-kontakt.nl Vijzelstraat 27-35
Aurora mainly deal in lighting and funky house hold accessories.
There are also several large hardware and electronics stores on Haarlemmerstraat
iCentre CS Prins Hendrikkade 26, 1012 TM
Apple products and customer care services for your mac.
Tel. 0800 0200 570
