Frequently Asked Questions
We're happy to answer your questions.
General Information
What is De Meelfabriek?
De Meelfabriek is a former flour mill complex covering approximately 55,000 m². The site comprises ten national heritage monuments together with distinctive contemporary buildings, all being transformed into a vibrant urban district with homes, offices, restaurants and cafés, a hotel, sport and wellness facilities and high-quality public spaces. Today, De Meelfabriek is one of the most ambitious industrial heritage regeneration projects in the Netherlands.
Why is De Meelfabriek so special?
De Meelfabriek brings together industrial heritage, contemporary architecture and sustainability. Historic buildings are being carefully restored and given new purposes, while new architecture has been thoughtfully integrated into the site. The result is a place where past and future come together.
What is De Meelfabriek doing to promote sustainability?
Sustainability is a key element of the redevelopment. Historic buildings are preserved and adaptively reused, complemented by sustainable technologies such as ground-source energy, solar panels, water retention and extensive landscaping. For more information, visit the Sustainability page.
How can I contact De Meelfabriek?
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. You can contact us by telephone on +31 (0)71 361 07 14 or by email at info@demeelfabriek.nl.
Getting Here & Parking
Where is De Meelfabriek located?
De Meelfabriek is situated on the edge of Leiden’s historic city centre, alongside the Singel and on the route of the Singelpark.
- Garden and shops: Maalderijstraat 2
- Underground car park: Oosterkerkstraat 12
- Construction site: Meelfabriekplein 1
Can I park at De Meelfabriek?
Yes. The underground car park at De Meelfabriek is open 24 hours a day. It offers spacious parking bays, lift access and EV charging facilities. For more information visit the Parking Garage page.
How much does parking cost?
Parking costs €3.40 per hour or €21.00 per day. If you are interested in a parking subscription, please contact us at info@demeelfabriek.nl.
Can I charge my electric vehicle?
Yes. EV charging is available in the underground car park.
Where can I park my bicycle?
Bicycle racks are available at various locations throughout the site.
Can I reach De Meelfabriek by public transport?
Yes. De Meelfabriek is easily accessible from Leiden Central Station by bus, by bicycle or on foot.
Visiting
Is De Meelfabriek open to the public?
Yes. Much of the site is freely accessible. You are welcome to explore the grounds, visit the garden and enjoy the businesses located on the site. While construction and redevelopment continue, some areas remain closed. More parts of De Meelfabriek will open as construction progresses.
What is there to do?
There is plenty to discover, from creative workshops and independent shops to a visit to the hairdresser, physiotherapist or kitchen showroom, followed by coffee at the café. Stroll through the Piet Oudolf garden and admire the combination of national heritage monuments and contemporary architecture. You can also combine your visit with a walk through the Singelpark or book a guided tour for your group.
www.demeelfabriek.nl/en/business
What are the opening hours?
The grounds and garden of De Meelfabriek are freely accessible, while the underground car park is open 24/7. Opening hours vary between the individual businesses.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Guided tours can be arranged for groups on request. Please contact us at info@demeelfabriek.nl.
Is De Meelfabriek accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The public spaces, garden, underground car park and most of the new buildings are largely accessible for wheelchair users. The underground car park has lift access and designated accessible parking spaces. Please note that the historic Directiekantoor does not have a lift and can only be accessed via stairs.
Is De Meelfabriek suitable for children?
Yes. Children are very welcome. Explore the garden together or combine your visit with De Doorbraak natural playground, located directly next to De Meelfabriek.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a lead. We kindly ask owners to clean up after their pets.
The Future
Will there be a hotel at De Meelfabriek?
Yes. A high-quality hotel will be created within the historic Silogebouwen. The development will also include a City Spa & Wellness, several restaurants and cafés and new places to meet and relax.
When will the hotel, restaurants and wellness facilities open?
The transformation of the Silogebouwen is expected to begin during 2026 and will take approximately three years to complete. Confirmed opening dates will be announced once the construction programme has been finalised.
Working & Business
Can I hire a space for a meeting or event?
Yes. Grutsk Koffiebar offers event space for groups of up to approximately 60 people. Please contact info@grutsk-koffiebar.nl for reservations.
Can I rent office space?
Yes. Self-contained office space is currently available in the Directiekantoor. Please visit the website to view the latest availability.
I would like to establish my business at De Meelfabriek. Is that possible?
If you are an entrepreneur and believe your concept would complement De Meelfabriek, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please contact us at info@demeelfabriek.nl to discuss the possibilities.
Living
Are there any homes still available?
At present, one home remains available: a unique loft apartment in the historic Ketelhuis. Please visit the Living page to view the latest availability. Once the development has been completed, homes at De Meelfabriek will only become available through resale by private owners.
How many homes are there at De Meelfabriek?
De Meelfabriek comprises 127 owner-occupied apartments and 58 rental homes for students and PhD candidates, managed by DUWO.