Utrecht's Broedplaatsen: Between Policy and Practice

Former industrial sites turned into thriving hubs for artists, designers, and makers? It’s happening all across Utrecht. From Vechtclub XL to Hof van Cartesius, creative incubators (broedplaatsen) are reshaping the city’s urban fabric—offering affordable spaces that spark innovation and bring local and international initiatives together to meet, experiment, and grow.

Nick Dessing, Project Manager of Cultural Infrastructure at the Municipality of Utrecht, will take you inside these dynamic spaces that fuel creativity and social connection. He’ll share how broedplaatsen support grassroots initiatives, foster inclusive communities, and breathe new life into forgotten corners of the city.

But creating a Broedplaats comes with its own set of challenges—economic, social, and spatial. How do they achieve financial sustainability, connect with surrounding neighborhoods, and nurture strong communities of makers? In a life-sized game, we’ll explore how these dynamics play out in today’s urban landscape, local policies, and political climate.

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