Designing for community and connection; youth care reimagined through social architecture

About de Tafelberg
Every child deserves a safe, healthy environment to grow up in. Yet, for many young people in the youth care system, the transition from structured support to independent living is often marred by isolation. De Tafelberg was born from a partnership between housing association De Alliantie and youth care organisation Levvel to bridge this gap, creating a sanctuary where reintegration is not a lonely process, but a communal one.

Results, impact and tangibles
Standard youth care programs can unintentionally isolate young people from the pulse of society. The goal was to develop a comprehensive visual brand identity; spanning from a logo to a detailed style guide that reflects the spirit of a “living, learning, and working” community. The identity needed to feel inclusive, grounded, and vibrant, mirroring the architectural vision of NL Architects.

Located at Tafelbergweg 8 in the Amstel III district of Amsterdam-Southeast, De Tafelberg is more than a residential complex; it is a social ecosystem. Since 2025, the site has become home to 290 residents, including: youth starters, young professionals & students and social entrepreneurs.

By centering the brand on the concept of the “Community Hub,” it helps De Tafelberg position itself as a pioneering model for Dutch youth care. The resulting identity doesn’t just label a building; it fosters a sense of belonging for many individuals that form a commmunity who navigate their steps towards a bright future together.