Solving Livability and Rain Water Issues in a Mutualistic Manner

Abstract

In this report, fruitful combinations in solving livability problems and rain water nuisances are explored for the case study of the Schilderswijk. The importance of this combination is found in the importance of the two of them seperately. Climate proofing neighbourhoods is necessary when considering climate change which will only increase rain water nuisances. Improving livability is important as it has an influence on people’s and especially children’s future prospects. Combining both measures in a fruitful way provides more financial means, is more sustainable and is more pleasant for inhabitants.
The Schilderswijk is and represents a multicultural, low income, low livability neighbourhood that is densly built and well located. Furthermore it has a reputaion bigger than itself that had to be dealt with. These place specific characteristics are researched by mapping, literature and observations.
Livability is researched in a broad sense relying on a framework based on ecology in which three types of livabililty are distinguished: perceived livability, apparent livability and presumed livability. Within these three types the following aspects are considered to measure livability: 1) Health and security/safety 2) Material prosperity, income inequality, inequality in happiness 3) Social relationships 4) Control on amount of social interaction and control on physical environment 5) Contact with nature. Livability is researched by looking at data and statistics, performing fieldwork in which behavior was observed, mapping, literature and with the help of interviews.
Rain water nuisances are researched by looking at data, literature, mapping as well as fieldwork in observing how they occur.

It was found that the following solutions have a positive effect or provide opportunities in creating positive effects on both livability and rain water nuisances in the Schilderswijk:
Kitchen gardens in combination with rain barrels,
Water squares in combination with sports or playgrounds,
Delftse stoep with the boundary condition of partly replacing paved surfaces by (semi)-permeable ones,
Car free streets where one can make space for greenery and activities such as playing or relaxing,
Built-in trampolines in playgrounds, the space underneath can act as a temporary water buffer,
Fountains can give identity to a place, create a more pleasurable microclimate and can partly be temporary water buffers,
Water playgrounds provide a socializing place for children and parents, while at the same time the height differences can be temporary water buffers and educate children on water issues,
Sport fields with infiltration boxes underneath,
Nature playgrounds, and finally
Parks with added functions and zoning in terms of height differences.
Specifically for the Schilderswijk, the reputation is one of the major issues. Solutions can be found in connecting the Schilderswijk more to the city center and train station, making a quality out of the unique retail offer by making themed shopping streets and giving a new swing to the name of the neighbourhood by introducing street arts. Especially street art can also have an added positive effect on livability in a multicultural neighbourhoods as it allows inhabitants to show off their culture and create places to be proud of.