From Department Store to University Hotspot: Spui Building Officially Opened in The Hague

Our member, Leiden University – Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, has officially opened its new Spui Building in the heart of The Hague. The building, formerly home to the V&D department store, has been transformed into a modern and vibrant university campus that brings together education, research, and societal engagement in a unique urban setting.

The opening of the Spui Building marks an important milestone in Leiden University’s continued presence and growth in The Hague as an international city of peace and justice. By repurposing an existing city-centre building, the university contributes to sustainable urban development while creating a welcoming and accessible environment for students, staff, researchers, and partners.

On Monday, 2 February, the first lectures officially kicked off in the new facilities. Students now attend classes in a space designed to encourage interdisciplinary learning, dialogue, and collaboration across programmes in governance, global affairs, and related fields. The building includes lecture halls, study spaces, meeting rooms, and areas dedicated to interaction between the university and the wider community.

To celebrate this special occasion, staff and students were invited to gather for coffee and cake on the second floor at 11:00 a.m., marking the start of a new chapter for the faculty in The Hague. The informal moment of celebration reflected the open and inclusive spirit that the Spui Building aims to foster.

We warmly congratulate Leiden University and the programme team on this impressive transformation. The Spui Building stands as a powerful example of how existing urban spaces can be reimagined as hubs for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration. We wish everyone involved every success in building new connections, developing fresh ideas, and shaping the future of education and research at this new location.