From Styling Spaces to Honoring Heritage – A Personal Tribute to Suriname

As an interior stylist, I’m often asked to prepare a home for sale, adding just the right atmosphere so potential buyers can immediately imagine themselves living there. Recently, however, I received a very special request: to help sell a bungalow in Suriname. Not just with an eye for style but with heart.

This time, it’s not just about a house, it’s about a story. My story. My roots lie in Suriname. Now that Keti Koti, the annual commemoration of the abolition of slavery on July 1st, has just passed, this felt like the perfect moment to reflect on heritage, beauty, and my connection to the land of my parents.

“Two inhabitants of the country hold a shield divided into two halves – the left – the past, the right – the present. The coat of arms also bears the inscription “Justitia, Pietas, Fides”, which is Latin for “Justice, Righteousness, Faithfulness”.

Suriname: A Country of Color, Culture, and Deep Roots

Suriname is a small but culturally rich country on the northern coast of South America. It’s known for its lush rainforests, diverse population, and warm hospitality. Once a Dutch colony, it became independent in 1975 but still holds strong ties to the Netherlands and to families like mine, who carry Suriname in their hearts wherever they go.

Saramacca river, Groningen

Each year on July 1st, we commemorate Keti Koti, which means “the chains are broken” in Sranan Tongo. It marks the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the former Dutch Antilles in 1863. It’s a day of reflection but also of celebration of resilience, identity, and the beauty of cultural freedom. This year, I wanted to honor that spirit by presenting Suriname not only as my heritage but as a land full of opportunity.

Missis (women) in koto (skirt), yaki (jacket), and angisa (headscarf) during Keti Koti; Image Source: Annet Eekman

A Hidden Gem in Wanica for Sale

In the peaceful district of Wanica, just 20 minutes from Paramaribo, a charming detached bungalow is for sale. Set on a generous 2,250 m² plot, surrounded by fruit trees and tropical greenery, this home offers peace, space, and natural beauty. It’s a perfect place for a fresh start or a meaningful investment abroad.

This move-in-ready home includes:

• 1 spacious bedroom
• Bright living room with open kitchen
• Bathroom and separate toilet
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Attic space
• Garden with avocado, papaya, lime trees, and more
• Garage, private driveway, and terrain vehicle included
• Security cameras and automatic entrance gate
• Rainwater storage, water heater, and WiFi
• Asking price: €350 000

📍 Nieuwegrondweg 233A, Wanica, Suriname
📞 Contact: Vangi Tjoe Ny | [email protected]

Why This Home Is Special

This home is more than just a house. It reflects what Suriname means to me: groundedness, simplicity, and strength. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical retreat, a peaceful retirement spot, or a meaningful investment, this place offers it all.

For me, this is a special moment. Helping present this home not only as a stylist but as someone with Surinamese roots feels like a tribute to where I come from.

Because sometimes a house is not just a place.
It’s history.
It’s heritage.
And sometimes it’s a bungalow under the Surinamese sun, ready for a new chapter.

Imagine a place where the sun kisses your porch each morning, where the scent of ripe papayas drifts through your garden, and where the only sound you hear is birdsong. Not a holiday, but your daily life.

“Atmospheric living is for everyone if you fill it with attention, style, and feeling.” – movawonen