The Boschgaard project in the Netherlands transformed an old community center into a residential complex and community hub using innovative sustainability practices and a resident-driven ownership model. Achieving an 85% reuse rate for construction materials, the project prioritised circular economy principles, sustainable construction, and resident collaboration.

A key challenge for the project was securing and storing sufficient secondary materials to meet construction needs. Another key challenge was finding adequate storage space, which was more than the team initially anticipated.

The project prioritised sufficiency and the reuse of materials from demolition and renovation projects. When reused materials were unavailable, eco-friendly materials, such as wooden frames and clay plastering, were implemented.

This project was initiated entirely by local residents, who took responsibility for its realisation from start to finish. The Zayaz Housing Corporation financed the project and remains the building’s owner, but the true ownership of the initiative lies with the residents. The project’s success within social housing budgets largely depended on the residents' active involvement. They adopted a hands-on approach, harvesting materials, participating in the building process, and overseeing the project as part of the development team, significantly reducing overall costs. This created a sharing culture through communal facilities and resources, such as shared kitchens, bathrooms, and appliances.

All roofs and outdoor spaces were formed by design to foster biodiversity by integrating green roofs and facades that supported plant growth and provided habitats for birds and insects.

Repurposing the old community center into a community-centric design allowed the building's exterior spaces to host social activities, workshops, and community engagement initiatives.

The project achieved a few milestones: 85% of the used materials were reused, and CO2 emissions were reduced by 70% compared to conventional construction.

The project avoided €700,000 in environmental damage by reducing resource extraction, energy, and transport costs.

Boschgaard’s redevelopment of the old community centre into a residential complex and new community hub demonstrates the power of resident-driven projects to inspire broader change. This innovative ownership model empowered residents to take a hands-on role, share responsibilities, and actively participate in all project stages. It also contributed to shaping sustainable lifestyles after the project’s completion.