Our project focuses on one of the most pressing issues in European cities today: displacement. We spent a week in the Netherlands to explore this topic in depth—through fieldwork, interviews, and direct engagement with affected communities. The outcome is a series of three short documentaries, each addressing a different but connected theme: renovation, demolition, and the social consequences of displacement.
We visited Tweebosbuurt, De Voortuinen, and Amstelhoven—neighborhoods that have become symbolic of the wider struggles around urban transformation. At each location, we created temporary interview spaces using moving boxes, which served not only as a practical setup but also as a visual metaphor for instability and the loss of home. These spaces gave room for honest conversations with residents, activists, and experts, many of whom shared deeply moving stories about being forced to leave their homes or witnessing their communities being dismantled.
Although the project began with the idea of producing one single documentary, the complexity of the topic led us to divide it into three focused films. Importantly, these documentaries are not just meant to show the current situation—they are also designed to inform and empower. During our work, we realized that many people are unfamiliar with the meaning and impact of these processes. Our films aim to make these complex topics accessible, sparking awareness and discussion. Ultimately, the project supports HouseEurope!’s mission by giving visibility to unheard voices and advocating for a sustainable, socially conscious urban development.
