The Begijnhof is from architectural perspective very unique in Amsterdam because the houses  show many façade types, such as the staircase, the bell, neck, spout and frame façade. In the 17th and 18th centuries, most of the façades were replaced. Only the original wooden façade of the Houten Huys at no. 34 has been preserved and gives an idea of the 15th and 16th century architectural style. This is one of the few surviving medieval wooden houses in Amsterdam. There are still 18 houses with a 15th century Gothic timber frame, other houses still have remains of a timber frame. Houses were also completely demolished and rebuilt, such as the gatehouse at the Spui, no. 37 in 1907.