Design and Development of The Playground, a Pre-Incubator Space for Entrepreneurial Students at Utrecht University

Abstract

Based on the insights from UU students obtained in focus groups and additional benchmarking material, recommendations for The Playground have been formulated in terms of spatial design and community. Key to make the proposed space likely attractive to UU students is the availability of various, designated spaces enabling different work modes, collaboration, events, and recharging. This unique combination of space and people should create a distinct, inspiring atmosphere, that needs to be felt by students upon entering the space. Therefore, to be successful, The Playground needs to become home to a new, proactive student community that should be encouraged to live and improve the space according to their needs. This study was the first of its kind to investigate student needs for the new concept of The Playground. It provided evidence for sufficient student interest for the continuation of the project, while also calling for continued investigation and integration of student perspectives in the design to prepare the best possible (pilot) version of The Playground for its opening in the (hopefully nearby) future.