Cousin Auke Plas has lived in the city of Groningen for his entire life. For the last 8 years, he resided in an apartment in Helpman. Conveniently, during his working years, he lived close to his job. And just 200 meters from his mother, aunt Ynskje’s house.

This year, he moved to a monumental house in Warffum. A home full of color in the Hogeland. It was built by Job Hansen in 1930, a member of De Ploeg, the artist collective from Groningen in the last century. The first resident was Ekke Kleima, a painter. In every room, the walls have regained their original colors: green, red, blue, orange, and ochre, which pays tribute to the creative history of the house.

Why did you move away from the city after 70 years?

I lived in an apartment with neighbors in a hallway. I got along well with them, but I started to feel a bit stifled. There was a homeowners association (VvE) that also set rules I had to follow. I wanted more freedom and space

But why Warffum, a place that many Dutch people mainly know for the earthquakes?

I love the Hogeland. When I used to work, I would often visit the Hogeland and found it beautiful. It is a lovely area, spacious and bright, full of tranquility. In just 10 minutes, I am at the Wadden dyke near Noordpolderzijl. People from Warffum are lovely. And I am fortunate to live in a very special house. 

Last week, brother Piet mentioned that in Ajo, the nearest hospital and hardware store were a 2½ hour drive away. Warffum also sounds quite far.

Warffum seems far away, but it’s actually close. At least if you live in the north of our country. The hardware store is 10 minutes by car. Warffum is not Ajo.