Stad in de Maak, formally Stichting Stad in de Maak, is a Dutch foundation focused on socially inclusive forms of urban living and collective use of property.34 It was established in 2013 in response to two related issues: the long-term vacancy of urban real estate and the limited involvement of residents in shaping their streets, neighbourhoods and city.4
The organisation activates vacant or underused buildings and makes them available for affordable living, working and community activities.34 Its projects combine residential and workspace with “commons”: shared facilities and spaces managed collectively for residents, neighbourhood groups and social organisations.3 Stad in de Maak states that approximately 30% of the buildings it manages is designated for commons and commoning.3
Its operating principles include taking properties off the market, collective ownership or use, rent-free common spaces, democratic organisation, self-management, and economic, social and ecological sustainability.34 The organisation’s longer-term objective is to help establish a permanent housing cooperative in Rotterdam, extending its work beyond temporary vacancy management.3
The foundation’s first project began at Pieter de Raadtstraat 35–37 in Rotterdam in 2014.4 It subsequently managed four properties of the Havensteder housing association in Rotterdam Noord, while also working with other temporarily vacant buildings.4 Current activities extend beyond Rotterdam: the organisation lists a residential project in Vlaardingen with 18 apartments, available under a vacancy contract until spring 2027.2 Its geographic scope is therefore primarily local and regional, centred on Rotterdam and the surrounding area.
Stad in de Maak was initiated by Erik Jutten, Piet Vollaard, Ana Džokić and Marc Neelen of STEALTH.unlimited; Daan den Houter later joined the coordinating team.34 The foundation’s board consists of Piet Vollaard, Erik Jutten, Marc Neelen and Ana...