Slim collaboration: Use/space

Second from the right: Jikkina Hijmans. Photo: Peter Lange

Interview with Jikkina Hijmans, Social Curator at Use/space

By collaborating smartly and utilizing existing resources differently, you can contribute to solving societal issues. From that thought, Use/space was born.

Many social and cultural initiatives struggle to find affordable space for their activities, while there are often areas in office buildings that remain unused for a large part of the time. Use/space brings these worlds together by connecting social organizations with companies that want to open their spaces. This creates room for social initiatives, new encounters, and more connection between the building and its surroundings.

Jikkina spoke about collaboration during the Kracht van West 2026.

Which partners do you need?

“We need companies that are willing to provide office space to social organizations. This can be one-time or structural. Think of a meeting or conference room, workspace, cafeteria, or other communal space.”

“Additionally, we collaborate with social and cultural organizations that are looking for a place to organize their activities. The strength lies in bringing these two worlds together: companies often have space and facilities, while social initiatives bring the energy, ideas, and social value.”

How do you get in touch with those companies and how do you persuade them to participate in this?

“We usually start the conversation about the ambitions of the owner or organization of the building. What is happening in and around the building? What do they find important for their tenants, employees, and the area? And what societal contribution do they want to make?”

“From Use/space, we demonstrate that opening up space not only benefits social organizations but also the organizations within an office and area. It brings more life to the building, encourages encounters and connections, and contributes to a positive image and social impact.”

“We make it concrete by looking together at which spaces are available and which initiatives fit with them. It’s not just about giving away space, but about creating a collaboration that is valuable for both parties.”

Which collaboration are you proud of?

“During the Amsterdam Dance Event, we organized a dance party together with the foundation Jong Geleerd Oud Gedaan at DB55, a unique blended-use venue located in the heart of the Amsterdam Houthavens. The event; LEEF TIJD, was intended for young and old, aiming to connect different generations with each other.”

“This is exactly what Use/space stands for: bringing together worlds that do not naturally meet. An office space temporarily takes on a very different function and becomes a place for meeting, fun, and connection.”

“We are proud of this collaboration because all parties involved contributed from their own strengths. DB55 provided the location and hospitality, Jong Geleerd Oud Gedaan invited the young and old, and together we made a meeting possible that might not have otherwise taken place.”

What was difficult within this collaboration? What challenges did you face?

“The challenge is often to bridge the gap between different parties that literally and figuratively speak a different language. A company, for example, looks at the use of a building, safety, and daily operations. A social organization primarily considers what it needs to organize its activities effectively.”

“As a social curator, I listen carefully to both sides and look for common interests. It must fit the user, the building, and the area.”

“Sometimes this requires a bit of rethinking. A meeting room that is normally only used during office hours can, for example, also be a valuable space for a repair café. Or a company cafeteria can provide space for a workshop for volunteers outside regular lunch hours.”

“With the collaboration with DB55, the organization went smoothly, partly because we know the location and the possibilities well. It is precisely that familiarity and mutual trust that make it easier to make new things possible together.”

How did it ultimately succeed?

“By coordinating well in advance, maintaining short lines of communication, and working together from a place of trust. We know DB55 and understand the possibilities the location offers. This allowed us to quickly adapt and translate the needs of Jong Geleerd Oud Gedaan into a suitable use of the space.”

“From Use/space, we guide the entire process: from bringing the parties together and aligning their wishes to practically enabling the activity. This way, the involved organizations can focus on what they do best, while we ensure that everything comes together.”

“The result was a successful event with a nice turnout of about 100 visitors, where the location took on a new function and people from different generations could meet each other.”

What do you think are the success factors for good collaboration?

“Especially mutual trust, open communication, and the willingness to think outside the box. You need to listen carefully to what the different parties need and understand what the added value is for everyone.”

“Additionally, it is important that there is someone who keeps an overview, connects parties, and guides the practical organization. A good match on paper is just the beginning. It’s about creating something together that works for all involved.”

“And perhaps most importantly: just start. You don’t have to set up a large or complicated project right away. By starting small and experiencing together what is possible, often the most beautiful collaborations arise.”