Have you spotted a KLMÂ miniature Delft Blue house at a thrift store or antique market before? With their navy blue and white colours and signature yellow wax cap, these little beauties are quite eye-catching, whether alone or in a little grouping.
Today, I wanted to share a bit of the history behind these houses and tell you why there's a certain magic to collecting these beautiful and interesting pieces.
What are KLM Delft blue houses?
KLM Airlines, the flag carrier of the Netherlands, hands out these Delft Blue miniature houses to people travelling in Business Class on an intercontinental route. Each house depicts a real Dutch building. These unique giveaway items have been around since the 1950s and there are over 100 different houses to collect.
Is there something inside a KLM house?
Yes, there is! Each house is filled with a small amount of Dutch alcohol. Most houses you'll see are filled with a brand of gin called Bols. You'll also spot some with a Rynbende Cherry Brandy sticker. The chimney of the house acts as a spout and is sealed with wax.
Why is there alcohol in a KLM house?
The houses were actually created as a way to bypass rules against giving gifts to passengers by presenting the bottles as a "beverage from the airline." Passengers could keep the "bottle" (house) after consuming their drink. You'll find sealed and open houses for sale. Some houses are sealed but empty due to evaporation over time.
Are some KLM houses rare?
Yes, a few are rare! For example, there are fewer than 100 Royal Palace Het Loo houses in circulation. Some are also highly prized and therefore harder to find, like the Anne Frank House (47), Rembrandt House (48), the Heineken Brewery (95), and the residence of the Dutch king (100). Info via Conde Nast Traveler
Why do people collect KLM houses?
KLM houses are modelled after real buildings in towns across the Netherlands. They make great travel souvenirs if you've visited Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or even Delft, the city that originated this hand-painted blue-and-white pottery style.
I think these houses are a bit magical, too. Houses are only handed out to intercontinental travellers, meaning that each house has been on quite the journey before making its way to you!
Styling Tip: KLM houses look great displayed in groups of 2-3 or in longer rows (5 or more). Display them in front of some of your favourite books or add them to the mantelpiece. They also look so cute and festive as part of a Christmas village!
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