Who are you and what gives you energy in your work?
I’m Koen Leenders, General Manager of Capital C.
Capital C is a creative hub where many different companies are based. We also have a large restaurant and a variety of creative event spaces – from small meetings to large fashion shows, everything is possible here.
The moment I walk into the building, I already feel energized. It’s a place with a rich history, yet at the same time you feel the creativity and dynamic atmosphere. We have a mix of permanent tenants, event visitors and restaurant guests, which makes every day different. What I’m most proud of is the team. The feedback we receive is almost always about our hospitality. That people truly feel welcome here – that gives me energy.
What might local residents not know about you, but would enjoy discovering?
It’s a large building, so there’s a lot happening that people might not be aware of. We’d love to strengthen our connection with the neighbourhood. That’s why we created the Diamond Club, which you can join for free. Members receive updates about what’s happening and get discounts at the restaurant.
Every three months, we host a new exhibition in the entrance. This way, we offer a platform to (emerging) artists, and visitors stopping by for a coffee can enjoy the exhibition for free.
Many people don’t realize that over 40 artists and designers contributed to Capital C. Every space has its own unique style and character – from a clock room to a pink meeting room. Even the restaurant was designed by an artist, with small details everywhere. Each table is different and printed with the cell structure of a different part of the human body.
I also think many people don’t know that Capital C is located in the former Diamond Exchange from 1911, designed by architect Gerrit van Arkel. You can still subtly see that history reflected in the building’s shapes and details.
At the same time, the building has been sustainably renovated. For example, the roof has a sedum garden that blooms in spring and supports biodiversity – who knows, maybe one day there will even be Plantage honey.
Our most striking feature isn’t exactly a secret, but it’s not immediately visible from the outside: the glass dome on the roof, shaped like a diamond. This is where our largest events take place.
The previous interviewee (Isabelle Vermeij from KIT) asked you:
“How do you deal with the rich – and sometimes complex – history of the building?”
The history of the diamond industry is part of this place, but it also has a darker side, especially during the Second World War. We don’t forget that, but we focus on how we give the building meaning today. For us, that means being a place that is open to everyone – from large companies to local residents. Hospitality and accessibility are central.
What is your hidden gem in the Plantage neighbourhood?
The Diamond Bridge. A place many people might pass by, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It feels hidden and intimate, with a beautiful connection to the area’s history.
Which Amsterdammer would you like to meet here?
Ineke and Resalieke from the Hart voor je Stad foundation. Through the proceeds of their cookies (the “Eberhardjes”), they support all kinds of social initiatives in Amsterdam. True connectors with a big heart for the city.
Who do you pass the baton to, and what question would you ask?
I’d like to pass the baton to Royal Theatre Carré. My question for them is:
How do you see your role in the neighbourhood? And how can we, as organisations in the Plantage, collaborate even more to make the area stronger and more vibrant together?