Dutch venue launches low-stimulus space for audience

Dutch venue 013 has officially opened Pause, a newly designed low-stimulus space intended to offer visitors a quiet area to take a break during concerts or events. The space aims to provide a more inclusive experience for attendees who may benefit from a calm environment. The concept for Pause originated in 2023, inspired by the personal experiences of staff members Lotte Wijnen and Renske Jacobs, who occasionally used their office as a place to decompress during busy events. Their initiative led to the formation of a project group that developed the space over the following two years. Located within the venue, Pause features dim lighting, reduced sound levels, and comfortable seating. While not entirely stimulus-free, the space is designed to be soothing and accessible. Input for the room’s design came from volunteers with relevant lived experience, and 013 also consulted with Poppodium Bibelot in Dordrecht, which offers a similar facility. The space was trialed at several events in early 2025 and received positive feedback from visitors, as well as from local accessibility organizations Toegankelijk Tilburg and Stichting Accessibility.