The Art of Everyday. For LINDA TOL, life is about balance: between work and family, ambition and presence, the extraordinary and the everyday. Her story is one of love and of finding joy in the simple rituals that make a home feel alive. Together with her partner, RENWE JULES, she has spent nearly two decades building a life that moves with them, from Amsterdam to Milan and now back to the Netherlands. They invested in a 200-square-meter townhouse in Haarlem, northwest of the city. By the summer of 2020, they had moved in, eager to start a new chapter.
Photographer Sarah Wijzenbeek. By Louise Rizell, Text Bea Hellman
Linda wears trenchcoat from The Frankie Shop. T-shirt, Gil Rodriquez. Jeans, Tony Wack. Renwe wears coat and shirt, Uniqlo. Trousers, Arket. Shoes, J Crew. Louie: Trousers and vest, Repose AMS. Lila: Skirt and knitted vest, Repose AMS. Lenu: dungarees and top from Gamine Gamine.
Hello Linda, tell us about yourself.
LT “I’m 40 years old and Dutch-born. I’ve built a career as a digital talent and brand consultant, and I’m also the proud owner of Jules Coffee & Concept (which opened in May 2022) and Jules Bakery (opened in May 2023). My professional journey started in fashion PR more than a decade ago, and over time I’ve been able to combine my love of style with digital creativity, building long-term collaborations with international brands and creating my own projects.
On a more personal note, I’m a true coffee lover, a cappuccino with oat milk is my everyday ritual, and I have an endless curiosity for exploring the world, whether that’s traveling to new places or simply discovering something unexpected close to home.
I’ve been together with my partner Renwe since 2004, and he’s truly my best friend. Together we’ve built a beautiful family: our son Louie, who is 4; our daughter Lila, who is 2; and our youngest, Lenu, who is just 8 months old. We live in Haarlem, a historic Dutch city west of Amsterdam, known for its charm, canals, and cultural heritage. It has the warmth of a small town but the richness of a cultural hub, and it’s the perfect place for us to raise our children.
We love your house, tell us everything about it.
LT “Thank you! We instantly fell in love with our home. The high ceilings, the fireplaces, the historic details, the light-filled rooms, and the garden, it all just felt right from the beginning. The neighborhood also has such a lovely atmosphere.
We’ve lived here for a while now, but our love for the house hasn’t faded. We’re always rearranging things, adding new touches, or changing up the decor. Our style is a mix of warm woody neutrals, clean lines, and organic curves, combined with vintage finds and contemporary art. We love blending textures and materials to create a space that feels both modern and timeless.
What makes a home cosy?
LT “When it reflects the people living in it. For us, it’s about comfort, warmth, and creating a personal connection through our space. That comes from the small things: vintage treasures we’ve found on our travels, artwork that means something to us, and objects that hold memories. Those details bring soul and personality to a house.
Do you have a favourite room in the house?
LT “Without a doubt, the kitchen. It’s the heart of our home, the place where everything happens. We spend so much time around the big dining table, from breakfast and coffee to lunches, dinners, and conversations while the kids play nearby. We’re currently planning to extend the kitchen so we have even more space to gather, which I’m really excited about.
How does a typical everyday look like for you?
LT “Our day begins early, usually around 6:30. We love to take about ten minutes in the morning just to cuddle as a family before the rush begins. Then we shower, get dressed, and I start preparing breakfast while Renwe helps the kids. Breakfast is always a moment we try to enjoy together.
Afterwards, Louie goes off to school five days a week, while Lila and Lenu attend daycare three days a week. I usually handle drop-off before starting my workday around 9 a.m. From then until about 3 p.m., I focus on meetings, content creation, brand projects, and running Jules Coffee & Bakery. At 3 p.m., I pick up Louie and we spend time together, either at home or with friends.
Renwe usually returns around 5 p.m. and takes over in the kitchen to prepare dinner, while I go to collect Lila and Lenu from daycare. At 6, we gather for dinner, our favourite family ritual. The evenings are all about bathtime, bedtime stories, and winding down together. It’s a full schedule, but those daily rhythms give us both structure and joy.
“My style is diverse but always recognizable as me. I don’t like to overthink outfits; I dress according to my mood. I’d describe my style as effortless, chic, and always with a masculine touch.”
Monk dining chairs in black leather and Beech by Tobia & Afra Scarpa for Molteni, 1973. The table was made by the couple together with a local craftsman. Rug from Nordic Knots, Vase by Louise Roe. Wall painting, Annemieke van Beek.
“The vintage glass cabinet is a favourite. it was bought on a new years eve on Catawiki at a great price, probably because nobody else was buying furniture at that hour.”
Linda sits in a vintage armchair by French designer Pierre Paulin wearing a red dress from Loulou Studio.
A Westminster teak clock, french press and ceramic goods on Rivet shelf from Frama.
The corner cabinet is a relic from the previous owners. The silver objects were found by Linda and Renwe through Les Objets. Anissa Kermiche Love Handles ceramic vase. orange “Panthella” lamp by Louis Poulsen. Bubble glass carafe by Louise Roe + Sophia Roe S.R Collection.
Left: Renwe and Lila.
Louie in irousers and vest, Repose AMS.
Do you have a mission in your work life?
LT “More than anything, I want to continue loving what I do. I’ve been lucky enough to transform my passion into a career, and that’s something I don’t take for granted. My mission is to keep the spark alive, to stay curious, driven, and creative.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Learning self-worth is ongoing, and it has taken me time to embrace my flaws while leaning into my strengths. I’ve learned the importance of focus: accepting that I can’t do it all, but being proud of what I can do when I give it my full attention. For me, it’s about staying true to my values and creating meaningful work that inspires others.
What motivates and inspires you?
LT “I’m motivated by the challenge of setting ambitious goals and then working toward them step by step. Personal growth is a big inspiration to me, learning new skills, stepping outside my comfort zone, and finding ways to translate creativity into something tangible.
What really excites me is the process of bringing ideas to life. I love creating projects that spark joy in others, whether that’s through fashion, lifestyle, or the community we’ve built around Jules. Seeing an idea evolve into something people truly connect with is incredibly fulfilling.
What is on your mind right now?
LT “We just came back from our first holiday as a family of five, which was such a special milestone for us. Right now, I’m enjoying the memories of that trip while also easing back into work. I’m preparing for some exciting new projects and travels, which always gives me energy and focus.
At the fireplace a Camaleonda armchair, B&B Italia. Side table by Knoll.
The Reform kitchen is the heart of the home.
Three places in Amsterdam and Haarlem that you recommend?
LT “In Haarlem, of course I have to recommend Jules Coffee & Bakery. It’s truly the best coffee and bakery in town, and something we’re so proud of creating.
In Amsterdam, I love Carmen. It’s a wonderful spot for breakfast, even with the kids. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is inspiring, and the shop is curated so beautifully. Another favourite is Tannay. The food, the vibe, the location, and the service all come together to create such a memorable dining experience.
Tell us about something that changed your life.
LT “There are a few key moments that have shaped me.
Becoming a mother was the most profound. Motherhood has taught me so much, patience, resilience, and the beauty of the unknown. It’s not without challenges, especially the constant worry that comes with wanting to protect your children from everything. But the bond, the joy, the unconditional love… it’s magical.
Another big chapter was our move to Milan, where we lived for four years. It was one of the best times of our lives, full of new experiences, friendships, and inspiration.
And finally, opening Jules Coffee three years ago was life-changing. Both Renwe and I have always loved coffee, and the idea of creating a local hangout where people could meet and connect was a dream of ours. Building a community around that vision has been so rewarding.
What’s your style?
LT “For me, style is about personality, it’s an expression of individuality. If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, it won’t feel authentic. My style is diverse but always recognizable as me. I don’t like to overthink outfits; I dress according to my mood. I’d describe my style as effortless, chic, and always with a masculine touch. I love black loose trousers paired with a white or grey t-shirt, topped with a cashmere sweater in grey. On my feet, I’ll usually wear ballerinas, loafers, or slingbacks, and I always carry a bag that ties the look together. It’s simple, comfortable, and very much me.
“We used to live much more colourfully in our other places. When we bought this townhouse we wanted to invest in furniture and live with a calmer colour palette. We studied the space carefully. It was important to us to create a minimalist, but warm and cozy home, so we played with different materials. Some pieces are new, others vintage, some moved with us from previous apartments. We love Catawiki and browse the site to find unique items.”
What is the recipe for a long and loving relationship?
LT “Renwe and me make a great team. Communication is key, even though with three young kids it’s not always easy. We try to be open with each other, to listen, and to support one another’s goals. It’s also important for us to give each other space to grow as individuals. And we always try to carve out time for just the two of us, even in small ways.
Do you want to share how you met?
LT “It feels like a lifetime ago! We’ve been together for 21 years now. Back then, I was working at a Saturday market when Renwe came by to buy groceries. We struck up a conversation that later continued on MSN chat. After a few months, we decided to go on a date, and the rest is history.
What is love?
LT “Love is an emotional connection, a powerful attraction that brings joy and passion. To me, it feels both powerful and pure, something that can’t be fully explained but is deeply felt.
What moments make up your idea of a perfect day?
LT “The sun is shining, and we start the morning with coffee and breakfast. Then we visit a museum, stroll around the city, and simply enjoy being outside. The day ends at the beach with friends, sharing drinks and laughter. That, to me, feels perfect.
What kind of dinner do you love to share with the people closest to you?”
LT “Italian food, without a doubt. Pasta is our favourite. I like to keep the table simple but thoughtful, a linen tablecloth, ceramic plates, vintage glassware and cutlery, fresh sourdough bread with butter, and wildflowers for a natural touch. Around the table, the conversation flows easily, from personal stories to shared dreams.
What small everyday pleasures feel luxurious to you?
LT “The little things really matter. A perfectly brewed cup of coffee, fresh bread out of the oven, a bunch of fresh flowers, a delicious home-cooked meal, a warm bath, or playtime with the kids. Those simple moments bring me the most joy and feel like true luxuries.
What do you hope for in the future?
LT “I hope for good health and inner peace, both for myself and my family. For my children, I hope they grow up to discover their passions, follow their ambitions, and live lives filled with joy.
What values do you hope to pass on to your children?
LT “Honesty, gratitude, empathy, respect, kindness, and responsibility are core values I want to instill in them. I also hope they carry a natural curiosity and a love for learning throughout their lives.
Linda wears cashmere, Prada and skirt, Arket. The Arflex sofa (“Strips” by Cini Boeri) was long on Linda and Renwes wish list. Wall hangings by Atelier de Rijk.
Do you live by a life philosophy?
LT “Yes. I believe it’s important to see the beauty in your own life instead of constantly comparing yourself to others. Be proud of your uniqueness, accept yourself, and stay true to your heart. That’s when you realize you’re already doing it right.
What is the most recent book you’ve read?
LT “Cleopatra and Frankenstein.
A film you loved recently?
LT “Honestly, we haven’t had the chance to watch a movie since Lenu was born! Life with three small children keeps us very busy. ×
