A village in The Hague's city center: Boekhorststraat
In The Hague's old center, you will find a street called Boekhorststraat.
Unlike the other shopping streets in the center, Boekhorststraat is a volksbuurtwinkelstraat, which translates to "working-class shopping street". Here you will meet shop owners who are specialists in their trade with many years of experience as well as many interesting stories to tell!
The street has had quite a colorful history: from a time of affluence in the mid-19th century to recession in the '70s and most recently, a revival. There are shops that have been around for more than 30 years; many have closed but new concepts continue to add on the unique mix.
An epitome of diversity, this street offers a variety of things: from gold bars to chocolate bars, from upcycled chairs to hair salons, from Eritrean beers to Persian sandwiches, from practical home items to rare curiosities. There are no shopping chains here.
Despite the street's close proximity to the city center, this street feels more like a village. It is a vibrant and eclectic street unlike any other in The Hague. What I was most drawn to was the community atmosphere from the shopowners - the friendly nod, the wave, the helping hand, the invitation for coffee, and an afternoon chat.
In an increasingly polarized world, I believe there is value in such places where people are open to strangers, know their neighbors, and can work together towards common goals.
This series of photos is a celebration of the people who keep this street alive and the connectedness I wish to see more in our world.