Climate change and rising sea levels pose significant challenges for coastal cities like Rotterdam. My graduation project, Living with Water, explores how architecture can contribute to water-resilient living environments while enriching the human experience of water. The project focuses on the Merwehaven, a transformation area outside the dike, which faces a high risk of flooding but also presents opportunities to strengthen Rotterdam’s connection with its harbour and water.
The central research question asks: “How can architecture accommodate rising sea levels, ensuring human experience and sustainability in the context of the harbour of Rotterdam?” By integrating floating and amphibious housing typologies, sustainable materials, and innovative construction techniques, the project proposes a residential building that strengthens its connection to water. Additional functions—such as community centres, exhibition spaces, and educational facilities—enhance the area’s social and cultural value.
The research consists of two key elements: exploring how architecture can influence human perception and emotional engagement with water and examining the technical possibilities of building with water. Through case study analysis and a multisensory design framework, the project highlights water’s impact on sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. The findings show that integrating water-sensitive design principles can enhance the resilience and livability of port cities.
This project contributes to the broader discourse on climate-adaptive architecture, offering a prototype that balances technical innovation with social and ecological awareness. It serves as a model for other coastal cities worldwide, demonstrating how water-resilient architecture can create sustainable, vibrant urban environments.