It’s not just the people who help manifest an organisation’s current and future aims and ambitions. A building also has a major impact on those ambitions. It was special to be a part of this. I am very much looking forward to working together again in the new academic year. We see a need within the organisation for some guiding principles on the new flexible way of working in an open office space. So the HR team gladly responded to this by preparing some guidelines. Consider things like; leaving a workplace tidy for the next colleague or taking your telephone calls in a quiet room. It has been a challenging year for our students, colleagues and partners due to Covid-19. We are all ready for a new phase. The next step towards modernisation and innovation will be within reach when the new campus doors open. Welcome everyone: I can't wait!

What’s great is that the design came from Fokkema & Partners architects, but it was developed with the valuable input of our employees and students. For example, we held an employee quiz, in which necessary improvements such as climate control and multifunctional spaces came to the fore. In addition, working groups and inspiration sessions were used to collect colleagues’ ideas about the consequences of flex places on the design of rooms and the choice of matching furniture. Insights from the 2013 Campus Amsterdam renovation was also included in the final design.

“The renovation presents many opportunities to increase our community; people like working with friendly colleagues, preferably in an inspiring environment.”

It’s incredible to see how an old, dark and stuffy building turned into a light, transparent and inviting environment that also suddenly seems much bigger! By removing walls and doors, a feeling of togetherness and unity is created, marking a new beginning. Thanks to the layout of the main building into zones for employees, students and connectivity zones for meeting others, there is room for everyone.  A mix of experiences and spaces has been facilitated by, among other things, creating more study spaces, quiet areas and versatile outlets for lunch and dinner, a dynamic campus with modern education where everyone feels welcome.