“My living room is my space to unwind, but what really makes my house a home is my French Bulldog, Jazz.”
“My living room is my space to unwind, but what really makes my house a home is my French Bulldog, Jazz.”
At 44, Mischa is an entrepreneur who successfully translated his passion for healthcare into two businesses: Perfect Health, specialised in nutritional supplements, and Perfect Lab, focused on preventative medical health checks. Having originally come to Zuidas in search of space and balance, he has lived and worked in the district for years now. But he’s still looking ahead and says bringing more nature and character to the district would heighten its appeal.
Can you tell us something about yourself? What do you do, and what brought you to Zuidas?
“I was born in Amstelveen but grew up mostly in Amsterdam Zuid. I played football at the AFC and have good memories of that time. That sense of belonging somewhere has always drawn me. In the end, Zuidas felt like a logical choice because there’s more space than in the city centre. It’s also perfectly positioned for me, close to Schiphol Airport, the motorway and to Amstelveen, where my family and friends live. It feels safe and professional, though I occasionally miss the warmth you have in other neighbourhoods.”
What is your favourite spot at home?
“My living room, where I unwind after a long working day. The room has a clean, modern design, yet feels snug and comfortable. What really makes this room special is the view. The large window offers a gorgeous panorama of the Zuidas skyline, which is such an inspiring view, especially at dawn and dusk. But what really makes my house a home is my French Bulldog, Jazz. He provides companionship and warmth, which are essential for me.”
What is your favourite spot in Zuidas?
“My social life is mostly centred in Amsterdam and Amstelveen, but I am in Zuidas a lot. My gym is here and I’m a regular at Renessence, both of which help me recharge and boost my health and fitness. I love trying new things, so by now I’ve tried out most of the restaurants in Zuidas.”
What do you hope the future holds for Zuidas?
“Zuidas pretty much has it all, from shops and cafés to beautiful nature nearby, such as Beatrixpark and Amsterdamse Bos. It’s a dynamic place with loads to offer. I personally would appreciate there being a theatre or cinema someday. Some kind of cultural venue would enliven the neighbourhood so there would be more going on. Instead of just a business hub, Zuidas could be a place where you can hang out and get a culture fix.”
Do you want to stay in Zuidas for good?
“When I came to live here in 2016, I thought Zuidas was amazing. It still is, but life changes, and so has what I want. Nature and space are becoming more important to me now. I can see myself living in a detached house on the waterside someday, or maybe abroad, in a place like Spain, for part of the year. Ideally, in that case, I’d keep my place here. We’ll see what the future brings, but for now I’m happy where I am.”
Are there any downsides to living in Zuidas?
“For sure, there are some downsides. You can’t get away from its original DNA. It’s basically an office estate in the financial heart of Amsterdam. As such, it may lack some charm, but it’s also unique, because business is just in the air here. You also see it in the people, who tend to be focused on their own goals. This makes it interesting to do business in Zuidas, but if you decide to settle here, it’s important to be aware of that fact. Fortunately for me, I don’t live in the busiest area.”
Text: Ruby van Oers
Photography: Roxanne Wilm
