FOUNDING STORY
When we stepped into IBM’s typewriter factory—which had been abandoned for over a decade—10 years ago, we had no idea that this place would become what it is today. A desolate concrete block in a sleepy neighborhood that many Amsterdammers considered out of the way is now a vibrant, trendsetting hub that draws people in. We didn’t know back then that we would gain thousands of members. That we would become Amsterdam’s largest padel club. And that we would even develop a residential neighborhood. The only thing we knew back then was that we didn’t see square footage, but growth. Growth without an end goal. Boundless. Organic. A place where ideas and initiatives can flourish and where people will find one another. We have grand plans and dreams. But fortunately, we have no idea where we’ll be in 10 years.
That it’s here… we know that for sure.
Following its launch in 2014, the second building (B.2) was added to the B. concept in 2016, and the third building (B.3) in 2017. We refer to the buildings as B.1, B.2, and B.3. In total, B. now comprises 40,000 m² of space for offices, workspaces, and events, and 24,000 m² of smart city hub, which accommodates logistics companies and initiatives such as urban farming.
We refer to our more than 250 tenants as “members” because we offer more than just a place to work. There are plenty of lounges and common areas where you can run into other members or meet new people.
Every building is unique and has its own distinct energy and history. An industrial building over 50 years old, a failed project from 10 years ago that we’ve breathed new life into, and the third building, which draws inspiration from Japan and the fashion industry.
B. Amsterdam was one of the first coworking concepts in the Netherlands. It served as a placemaker for the Riekerpolder, helping to establish it as an attractive location for businesses.
The "B" refers to the bee or a beehive, which is recognized worldwide as an indicator of our ecosystem. If bees are struggling, so is our environment. It is no coincidence that the "B" in the logo of IBM, the building’s original owner, was also a bee. This logo was still visible on the building.
The "B" stands for "Plan B" rather than "Plan A"—doing things differently than usual. The "B" can also stand for "business" or "building." We don’t really mind which interpretation is chosen. B. Amsterdam has become a household name and is often cited (even internationally) as a model for building a successful community. And we’re proud of that.
MANIFESTO
We knew it the moment we first set foot here. We built B. Amsterdam on that feeling. On ambitions and dreams. On impossible ideas. On ideas that are just beginning, that grow, and that change everything.
From startups, scaleups, and corporations. Ideas from founders, employees, and solo entrepreneurs. From tech pioneers and do-gooders. From dancing copywriters and singing janitors. From those who stopped by briefly and those we’ve grown close to. On ideas that grow organically and think outside the box. That flourish.
Based on the idea that “different” should be our norm. And that this brings like-minded people together. We’re built on the idea that people shape places and places shape people. That you should be able to make a place your own. And that when you let others in, you grow. That you can stumble and get back up here, but above all, that you celebrate successes here. And that this success tastes even better when you can celebrate it together. On the idea that work gets better when it doesn’t feel like work. That here you feel the space to dream. That this is where it’s going to happen for you. In the short or long term.
Here, everything is malleable, changeable, and temporary. Based on the idea that this place is never finished. That we’re never done shaping this place into what it is, because it’s always evolving. We’re built on the idea that all of this is only possible here. On the idea that this little piece of Amsterdam is ours. It’s for you. This must be the place.
That principle has been woven into B’s fabric since day one. “If the building isn’t in the city, we have to create a city within the building,” said the founders. Ten years later, that’s exactly what B. has become: a place where work, leisure, and community flow seamlessly into one another. From dining to sports facilities and everything in between. And once you’ve explored it all? Then it’s time to meet your neighbors. Because at B., there’s always something new to discover.
On the rooftop of B.1, you’ll find Bureau: a versatile space you can rent for meetings, happy hours, dinners, and other events. Located on the green rooftop terrace, it features a bright, open atmosphere and views of the city. On Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, Bureau is also the perfect spot for the B. club’s community lunch.
Padel is thriving at B. Amsterdam. With twelve indoor courts, this is the ultimate spot for sports and energy. Play with coworkers, find a padel buddy through the community app, or come in the evening with friends. Members play for free during off-peak hours, and non-members are welcome too. B. Padel brings exercise, fun, and connection together under one roof.
At the gym, you can build strength and energy on your own terms. Work out on your own, take group classes, or push yourself in a HIIT or boxing class. The gym is open to everyone, and B. members get a discount. It’s an inspiring place to exercise, recharge, and get back to work feeling refreshed.
Golf, but with a twist. At GoGolf’s indoor golf bays, you can practice your swing using the latest TrackMan simulators or play a round with colleagues. A unique sporting experience right in the heart of Amsterdam, where work, relaxation, and fun come together effortlessly.
When you enter B.1, you step into the B. bar. An all-day bar serving breakfast and great coffee in the morning, perfect for lunch dates and casual get-togethers throughout the day, and drinks after work or a workout. A go-to spot to take a break, catch up, and then get back to what you were doing.
Every day, the Caretakers bring coffee, lunch, and a friendly atmosphere to B. Amsterdam. You’ll find them in B.2 and B.3 for a quick grab-and-go or a moment in the lounge. They know your name and make sure every break feels like a little pick-me-up during your workday.
We, too, had a brand video made that, as expected, features the words “inspiring,” “community,” and “energy.” Plus another 5 to 10 buzzwords that sound catchy.
What is important, though? That you’ll never be bored at B. Make sure you get your work done, but don’t forget that sitting for 8 hours straight isn’t good for anyone. That a quick walk, a game of padel, an appointment with the physical therapist, or coffee with a colleague can sometimes be more inspiring than most meetings.
Renting from B. means you’re never far from new inspiration or energy. Whether it’s the 100,000 event attendees who pass through here every year, the chance to take your call on the rooftop terrace, or the personal training session you schedule at the end of the day—you decide what works best for you.
B. Amsterdam is led by a team of 18 colleagues. This includes facility managers, community managers, event managers, and the finance and creative departments. Across our 40,000 square meters, spread across three buildings, you can work, attend events, exercise, eat, drink, and even visit the physical therapist.
Together, we make sure our members, customers, and partners are happy. Together, we’re building a company we can be proud of. Come by for a chat and see if we can build something together!
