Living near the prettiest park in Utrecht: how Ineke shares her home and enriches lives

In a historic home by Wilhelmina Park in Utrecht, Ineke rents out a room to students. Her story shows how homestay renting offers more than housing - it creates connection and enriches everyday life.

Some hosts leave a lasting impression. Ineke is one of them. She lives in a monumental house next to Wilhelmina Park in Utrecht — a home full of history, culture and warmth. But above all, it is Ineke herself who stands out: kind, open-minded and genuinely interested in the people she welcomes into her home.

During a visit, Ineke shared that homestay renting is nothing new to her. Her parents rented out rooms to students in the very same house decades ago, at a time when housing shortages were just as pressing as they are today. Where students were sometimes assigned to households back then, Ineke now consciously chooses to share her living space.

Sharing for connection, not just necessity

Ineke started renting out a room during the energy crisis, when rising costs made her worry about monthly expenses. But she quickly discovered that the financial aspect was only part of the story. “I mostly enjoy having someone in the house,” she explains. “The contact with young people really enriches my life.”

Last year, Beatrise (27) from Latvia lived with her while studying in Utrecht. Beatrise deliberately chose not to live in a student house. “I was done with the party lifestyle,” she says. “I wanted to experience Dutch culture and everyday life.” Through her university, she found Hospi Housing — and soon after, Ineke. Today, they both sing in a choir and regularly attend each other’s performances, a match that goes beyond simply sharing a home.

Support makes all the difference

For Ineke, having proper guidance was essential. Hospi Housing supported her with clear agreements, a standard rental contract and practical advice on rules and tax matters. “It gives peace of mind,” she says. “You’re not on your own.”

Ineke and Beatrise’s story shows what homestay renting is truly about: sharing space based on trust, clear expectations and mutual respect. Not only a response to housing shortages, but also a meaningful way to connect generations and cultures.

The full interview with Ineke and Beatrise was previously published in de Oostkrant Utrecht.

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