From handmade cups to wooden furniture, crocheted accessories to graphic products — at Bijzonder Amsterdams you’ll find it all. Made by Amsterdammers with a distance to the labour market, brimming with creativity and a drive to work. We wanted to know more, so we asked Jolita Klepper, Project Manager at Bijzonder Amsterdams.
Bijzonder Amsterdams has several studios in Amsterdam where ceramics, woodwork, textiles and graphic work are made. “Every item is handmade, with care and craftsmanship,” says Jolita. “Together with day activity centres, we look at each maker’s skills. Is someone good at punching or lacing? Then we translate that action into a product that works. This gives rise to a collection that is not only special to look at, but especially special because of who made it.”
Unique talents
At Bijzonder Amsterdams, they believe that everyone has unique talent. They choose to look beyond a person’s age, intellectual ability or mental health challenges. “The unique talent — that is what we focus on. Our makers receive training in our studios to learn a craft. And work that brings out the best in their talent. In our studios and in our concept store and restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam, they can develop themselves.”
Being willing to look differently
“But surely they can’t do that?” That is what people at Bijzonder Amsterdams often heard in the beginning. “We looked beyond what seemed possible at first glance,” Jolita continues. “And every time, the opposite turned out to be true. With engaged support, small adjustments or a cleverly designed aid, much more is possible than you might think. Entrepreneurship requires a willingness to look differently. When you do, you create space. And in that space, everyone can participate.”
Work that matters
The makers are enormously engaged and work with dedication on their assignments and products. More and more makers are able to join because companies are consciously choosing products with meaning. More than 15 locations are now involved, and more than 500 makers contribute to valuable work. “What moves us most is how connected the makers feel to their assignments. They know their work matters. That people want to buy it. That their skills are not only seen, but also valued. Participating is experiencing.”
Locally Made
Bijzonder Amsterdams is of course part of Locally Made. “Being part of a platform that celebrates sustainable Dutch products feels like confirmation that we matter. That our makers matter. Standing alongside other beautiful brands gives us not only pride, but also energy to keep building.”
A growing movement
And keep building is exactly what they want to do. Not to be bigger, but to let more people participate. “Our dream is for even more makers to be able to use their talent, and for more and more processes to be carried from start to finish under their guidance. They have so many skills, loyalty and creativity. There are already enough ordinary things. We want to keep showing that products with a story, made with care and inclusivity, are the future. The movement can only grow bigger.”
Are you looking for a special collaboration with Bijzonder Amsterdams? They are always open to partnerships with companies that want to make an impact — whether it concerns corporate gifts, custom products or larger assignments. The makers have strong skills in repetitive and precise work, such as gift wrapping or product sorting. For companies looking for a socially engaged and reliable partner for this type of work, Bijzonder Amsterdams is happy to offer a solution. Email info@bijzonderamsterdams.nl for more information.
Take a look behind the scenes on the Instagram account of Bijzonder Amsterdams.