2023-04-18 10:00:52
Last Saturday was the festive opening of the Buuf & Buurtkamer, a place where Nieuwendammers with diverse backgrounds can visit each other. “When I came to live in Noord seven and a half years ago, I noticed that there is a cultural and economic gap between old Northerners and new residents,” says founder and coordinator Fritsy Muller (34). “I started thinking regarding how I might reduce this gap in Nieuwendam and decided to organize a neighborhood party on Purmerplein in 2017.”
Several activities followed – from King’s Day and a Freedom Meal, to Sint Maarten – following which the municipality knocked on her door to ask if she would like to participate in the redevelopment of Purmerplein. Muller: “I wanted to, but only if I was allowed to work with other local residents. Together we set up the Stichting Bewonersbedrijf Buuf & Buur.”
They can use the former retail building where Buuf & Buur is now housed for free for the next two years while renovations are being carried out on Purmerplein. In exchange, they give part of the space to retailers who cannot use their own business premises due to the renovations. “Currently there is an Italian delicatessen. That is really just fun for us, because it keeps things alive.” The space at the back of the building is rented out for residents’ initiatives, such as drawing lessons, film evenings and meetings.
Volunteers make a schedule among themselves for who serves coffee and when in the Buuf & Buurtkamer. “Hopefully we can eventually develop a revenue model so that we can also pay the regular rent when the renovations are finished.”
View our overview with all new shops, restaurants and cafes. Hints? open@parool.nl.
Buuf & Neighbor
Purmerplein 33, North.
Remarkable
A cup of filter coffee is already available from €1.50.
Characteristic
A red Canta: the mobile coffee bar.
Appearance
The Buuf & Buurtkamer is neutrally decorated, so that everyone feels welcome.
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