Today, Idealis unveiled the construction sign marking the redevelopment of the ground floor of the Bornsesteeg student residence in Wageningen. This milestone officially marks the start of the refurbishment works, which will enhance the living environment with a new entrance and a shared social space for students, combined with new office accommodation for Idealis.
The redevelopment aims to improve the student living environment while enabling Idealis to work closer to its tenants. The Bornsesteeg building will feature a central communal space, an upgraded bicycle storage facility, a new launderette and a contemporary office environment. The entrance and surrounding outdoor area will also be redesigned.
The scheme was designed by Paul de Ruiter Architects. Construction company Kreeft began preparatory works in May, with construction commencing in June. During the unveiling ceremony, Karine van den Hoven, Property manager of Idealis, and Gert van Driesten, Director of Kreeft, marked the official start of the project with a symbolic handover of building materials to the site manager.
New facilities and more space to connect
The refurbishment will improve the living environment for residents in several ways. A new entrance will make the building more recognisable and accessible. The large open bicycle storage area in the basement will be expanded, creating additional space outside for landscaping and improving the overall appearance of the site. A central launderette will also be introduced, providing greater convenience for residents while supporting more sustainable use of shared facilities. The new communal space will offer students a welcoming place to meet, study and make use of shared amenities.
Bart van As (Managing director Idealis) said: "This refurbishment prepares Bornsesteeg for the future. Residents will benefit from improved facilities and more opportunities to meet one another. At the same time, Idealis will be located closer to its tenants. This reflects the way we want to work: visible, approachable and close to our students."
By carrying out the works in a single construction phase, Idealis will be able to complete the redevelopment more efficiently. Residents will be able to remain in their homes throughout the works.
One integrated approach, fewer separate construction projects
By combining the construction of the new office with the essential renewal of the ground floor, bicycle storage area and outdoor space, Idealis has chosen one integrated approach instead of several separate construction projects.
This approach brings together all necessary improvements to the site while creating a modern office environment, reducing costs, saving time and minimising disruption. Completing all works within a single construction phase will help keep inconvenience for residents to a minimum while delivering a renewed Bornsesteeg more quickly.
A healthy and future-focused workplace
The new office will provide Idealis with a healthy, comfortable and future-proof working environment that supports its ambitions to collaborate effectively, stay close to its tenants and make it easier for colleagues to connect. The current office location no longer meets these requirements.
Architect Paul de Ruiter said: "The plinth of the tower block will be transformed into a circular timber volume where living, meeting and working come together. By intelligently combining office space for Idealis with facilities for students, the building will become not only a better place to live, but also a place that encourages interaction, with a strong focus on health, sustainability and community."
Building the Bornsesteeg of tomorrow together
The refurbishment marks an important step in the continued development of Bornsesteeg. Idealis is investing in a future-proof environment, including sustainable building services and a more modern internal layout.
Residents will be able to remain in their homes throughout the construction period. Idealis will keep them informed throughout the project and will do everything possible to minimise disruption. The refurbishment is expected to be completed in October 2027.
Bart van As concluded: "With this approach, we are strengthening not only our organisation, but above all the living environment of hundreds of students. We look forward to working together with residents, partners and the local community to create a Bornsesteeg that is ready for the future."
More information about the refurbishment can be found at
