A design lover's guide
In the heart of the Netherlands is Eindhoven, a city that has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into the country’s undisputed design capital. Just over an hour from Amsterdam on the train, Eindhoven pulses with creative energy, attracting design enthusiasts and innovators from around the globe. The city offers a variety ways to “live like a local” and get involved in the vibrant design scene.
Strijp-S
The former Philips factory complex, Strijp-S, stands as a testament to Eindhoven’s remarkable transformation. This industrial heritage site has evolved into a creative hub where designers, artists, and entrepreneurs breathe new life into historic buildings. Start your day at Onder de Leidingstraat, a favorite local breakfast spot housed in a former industrial pipeline street. For a hands-on experience, book a workshop at Plug-in-City, where you can learn about circular design and even create your own piece from recycled materials. Local designers often host workshops teaching everything from sustainable furniture making to textile design.
The MU Artspace, located in the heart of Strijp-S, offers interactive exhibitions where visitors can engage with cutting-edge design installations. Unlike traditional museums, MU encourages visitors to touch, interact, and even contribute to certain exhibitions, providing a more immersive experience of contemporary design.
Kazerne
Kazerne represents the epitome of Eindhoven’s design culture, where visitors can literally eat, sleep, and breathe design. This former military barracks has been transformed into a unique hybrid space combining a design gallery, restaurant, and boutique hotel. For a truly local experience, book a spot at one of Kazerne’s Design Dinner sessions, where you’ll enjoy a meal while learning about the stories behind the exhibited designs. The chef creates menus inspired by the current exhibitions, offering a multi-sensory experience that locals particularly appreciate.
You can also participate in Kazerne’s Meet the Designer workshops, where you can work alongside established Dutch designers. These sessions might involve prototyping a new product, experimenting with innovative materials, or learning about the design thinking process.
Beyond the Design Districts
To truly experience Eindhoven like a local designer, venture into the city’s lesser-known creative spaces. Visit Sectie-C, an industrial space where over 250 creators maintain their studios. Many open their doors to visitors on the last Sunday of each month, offering a glimpse into the creative process and the opportunity to purchase unique pieces directly from the makers. At night, join locals at Piet Hein Eek’s restaurant, housed within the designer’s factory complex. The space showcases Eek’s signature recycled wood furniture and a menu that changes with the seasons.
Experiencing Eindhoven like a local means embracing the city’s design culture not just as an observer, but as a participant. Whether you’re prototyping at Strijp-S, dining amidst exhibitions at Kazerne, or discovering hidden creative spaces, you’ll find that design isn’t just something to admire here — it’s a way of life that shapes every aspect of the city’s identity.
