Ebbingehof is a resident-led housing community for people aged 50 and over in Groningen, Netherlands. Its development began with a group of prospective residents who explored collective housing from 2012; they later formed Bewonersvereniging ’t Ebbingehofje, followed by Stichting Ebbingehof in 2017. 811
The foundation was the project’s client and worked with architect Moriko Kira Architects and developer VanWonen to develop the plan; contractor Trebbe carried out the construction. 2 The five-storey building stands in the Ebbingekwartier, on the former CiBoGa gasworks site, and contains 40 rental apartments, including 10 social-rent homes. 211 Residents began moving in during 2021, after years of preparation and about a year and a half of construction. 89
Ebbingehof is organised around independent living alongside shared spaces and resident involvement. The foundation owns the building, while residents are members of the residents’ association; the arrangement gives residents a role in the community’s decisions and day-to-day life, but is legally distinct from a conventional housing cooperative.9 Shared facilities include communal rooms, a courtyard and rooftop terraces.10 Residents may join shared meals and activities, but participation is voluntary. 9 The project’s organisers describe it as a way to demonstrate collective living and encourage others to establish similar initiatives in Groningen. 9
The project was initiated and shaped by prospective residents, rather than originating as a conventional developer-led housing scheme. 211 VanWonen supported its development, and Trebbe was the building contractor. 2