The Netherlands has a rich textile history. In Overijssel, this heritage is still tangible in the estates, parks and country houses where textiles, nature and entrepreneurship come together. By Mölle draws daily inspiration from this landscape and tradition. From our atelier in Dalfsen, we continue the craftsmanship of the past, creating contemporary textile collections that are designed and produced locally.
At our slow stays 't Witte Huis on De Horte estate and the Lemelerberg Lodge in the heart of a Natura 2000 area, you can experience this connection between past and present. In this blog, we share the background of these locations, along with walking routes and tips for the surrounding area. You are also warmly welcome at the By Mölle atelier in Dalfsen, where we are happy to show you how we translate Overijssel’s textile heritage into the present day.
textiles as the driving force of Overijssel
In the 19th century, Overijssel grew into the heart of the Dutch textile industry. Families such as Van Heek, Ten Cate and Blijdenstein built their fortunes trading cotton, linen and wool. Their entrepreneurial spirit shaped a landscape in which factories, estates and villages were closely intertwined.
estates as a statement
Between 1880 and 1930, stately country houses with elegant English landscape parks were built, complete with avenues, ponds and remarkable trees. These estates were the calling cards of the textile families, expressing their success and their vision of beauty, nature and culture. Well-known examples include Het Stroot, Smalenbroek and Hof Espelo.
The story of the textile estates runs parallel to the story of Enschede. Around 1915, nearly a quarter of Dutch industrial production came from this city. The influence of the textile families extended far beyond factories: they invested in parks, education, culture and sport.
decline and a new chapter
In the 1960s and 70s, the Dutch textile industry collapsed due to competition from low-cost production abroad. Factories closed and jobs disappeared. Yet the textile mindset, inventive, resilient and forward-looking, endured. Old factories found new purposes, and creativity took new forms.
nature, heritage and inspiration
Today, the preserved Textile Estates are wonderful places for walking and cycling. Their avenues, ponds and parks tell stories of entrepreneurship and a deep connection between industry, culture and nature.
Tip: Want to experience the Textile Estates yourself? Discover the walking route (7 km) or cycling route (34 km) by Landschap Overijssel.
Another recommendation is the Lemelerberg walk near the Lemelerberg Lodge. This 12.5 km route takes you across one of the largest nature reserves managed by Landschap Overijssel, once donated by textile banker Abraham Ledeboer. A landscape that continues to inspire us in materials, colour and calm.
thank you!
By staying at 't Witte Huis and the Lemelerberg Lodge you contribute to the preservation of these unique natural areas.
photography: Corine hoge Bavel-Jansen © DPG Media, Jitzke Grijpstra Photography and Framed by Nien