Transforming Spaces: A Circular and Social Collaboration with SCHOUDER

In an era where ecological and sociological responsibility is paramount, initiatives that blend these principles serve as beacons of progress, stimulating both the circular and social economy. Since 2021, we have proudly partnered with SCHOUDER (Social Circular Hub Oudenaarde and Region), a dynamic hub fostering collaboration between the circular and social economy sectors.

SCHOUDER's mission is simple yet profound: to raise awareness and enthusiasm for circular entrepreneurship while creating social impact and serving as a platform for collaboration. By bringing together stakeholders from diverse sectors, SCHOUDER cultivates a culture of co-creation and cooperation, facilitating projects that generate value both environmentally and socially.

One such collaboration involved SCHOUDER, interior designers and private companies like Belysse to support a project initiated by the University of Ghent (UGent). Last year, UGent approached SCHOUDER with a challenge: to redesign two spaces within the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, imbuing them with a circular ethos and a homely ambiance.

"The talented team behind SCHOUDER transformed two bare classrooms into warm, inviting spaces. The use of recycled furniture and authentic materials highlights our commitment to sustainability and circularity. When people walk into the room and immediately comment on its charm, you know you've done something right."

- Juliette Taquet, PhD student at the Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, University Ghent

By providing second-choice carpet tiles, we enabled various upcycling initiatives, diverting waste from traditional disposal methods like recycling or incineration. This approach aligns seamlessly with our commitment to finding circular solutions that prioritize reuse and repurposing, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Our carpet tiles were used to cover DIY cubes, a decorative wall piece, and a custom patchwork carpet, among other creations.

Marie De Laet, Belysse's Sustainability Manager, reflects on the significance of such collaborations: "By collaborating on a small scale with the social economy, we can ensure that our products are given new life in a high-quality manner and create added value for both makers and users."

The project at UGent serves as a pilot case for SCHOUDER, demonstrating the efficacy of collaborative efforts in realizing circular and social objectives. Beyond tangible outcomes, such initiatives spark conversations and inspire broader societal change by fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the circular economy sphere.

"The project united creative minds, local artisans, and social makers with a strong commitment to sustainability. We are thrilled to have partnered with visionary companies like Belysse, who share our passion for supporting local initiatives. Our goal is to create more circular designs and inspire a shift towards sustainable practices in the interior design industry."

- Leen Lippens, SCHOUDER project partner

The collaboration with SCHOUDER exemplifies the power of partnership in driving meaningful change. By harnessing the strengths of the circular and social economy sectors, together, we can create a more sustainable, equitable future for all.