Reflections of the Bossche Stadsdelta

Amplifying the experience of the Bossche Stadsdelta in a non-traditional design process

Master thesis (2021)

Authors

M.G. Ebskamp Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

R.R.J. van de Pas Architectural Engineering - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
F.J. Speksnijder Teachers of Practice / AE+T - Architecture and the Built Environment (graduation committee member)
E.J.G.C. van Dooren Architectural Engineering - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2021 Merle Ebskamp
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Published Date

16-04-2021

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

As an architect we experiment. Architectural experimentation is the process of generating design ideas and making design decisions. The traditional tools, drawing and modelling, have proven to be fruitful. However, when zooming in on the essence of experimentation, one may wonder if drawing and modelling are the only possible tools to support the process of exploring and deciding. By detaching drawing and modelling from the act of experimenting; the research tries to broaden the traditional laboratory and explore the meaning of experimentation within design education. Furthermore, the research provided knowledge in, and experience with, non-traditional experimentation tools. The latter two have been applied into the design project. In the design process, traditional tools have been combined with non-traditional tools, such as film, blogging, movement and writing poetry. These experiments allowed for a sensitive and reflective approach towards the design (location). Especially the non-traditional tools allowed for looking at the design (location) from multiple perspectives. This resulted in the discovery of existing and potential qualities, but also in design principles and a guiding theme. The design takes place in the Bossche Stadsdelta. The Bossche Stadsdelta is the name for an area in ‘s-Hertogenbosch that will be developed in the coming years. However, due to physical separation by water and the lack of a shared identity; the area is not yet experienceable as the Bossche Stadsdelta. Luckily, the experiments with traditional and non-traditional tools imply that the area has a lot of existing and potential qualities. Therefore, a folly route is introduced. Follies are ornaments of the Bossche Stadsdelta: born from what is already there. They amplify existing (potential) qualities and are open for human action. The follies are mutually connected by sightlines and a shared architectural language. Together it allows locals and visitors to consciously move and stop throughout the area: to experience the Bossche Stadsdelta as a whole.