The new common room has been created in a converted section of the bicycle storage area, directly next to the laundry room. With a surface area of approximately 140 m² – including the renovated laundry facilities – the space offers plenty of possibilities: from cooking and dining together to studying, watching movies, or playing games. The need for a communal meeting space had existed for some time at Hildebrandpad, which until now had virtually no shared facilities. Thanks to its smart location next to the laundry room, the threshold to walk in is very low, encouraging spontaneous interaction.
Pop-up dinners to foster connection
In addition to its daily function as a place to relax or study, the common room will also be used for group activities. In collaboration with Resto VanHarte and the tenants’ association BRES, pop-up dinners will be organized to help strengthen the sense of community among students. Student managers have been appointed to keep the common room running and to encourage its use by helping organize activities such as these dinners. The collaboration with Resto VanHarte is part of a broader DUWO initiative aimed at creating similar communal spaces in other student housing complexes in Leiden and Delft this year.
Thanks to the Municipality of Leiden
The realization of this meeting space would not have been possible without the financial support of the Municipality of Leiden. Thanks to a motion passed by the city council, DUWO received a substantial subsidy. “That support was crucial in making this happen,” said Laurens Cramer, DUWO Leiden’s regional director. “We’re incredibly pleased and grateful that the municipality backed this initiative. It’s a great step towards increased connection and livability for our residents,” he added.
Sustainable and inviting
The room was designed by interior architect Enter My Attic, with a strong focus on atmosphere and sustainability; the furnishings were largely sourced from carefully selected second-hand pieces. The renovation was carried out by contractor Waaijer.
With the arrival of the new common room at Hildebrandpad, the student complex finally gains the social space it deserves – a place where relaxation and connection take center stage. Whether you're stopping by for a board game, a shared meal, or just a good conversation: everyone is welcome!
