Since the start of the Syrian conflict in 2011, people cross the Mediterranean Sea everyday, seeking safety and shelter. Arrival countries like Greece have difficulty to provide all displaced people in their basic needs. One of the most vulnerable among this group are the children. They have experienced war violence, flight dangers and displacement. They arrive at a camp that lacks places to play and develop, is unsafe and unfamiliar. In other words, they lack a sense of home.
This thesis is based on the journey from Syria to The Netherlands, with as transitory space; camp Mavrovouni on Lesvos. The Syrians leave behind a destroyed hometown, a dystopia, and long for a safe refuge, a utopia. Instead they arrive at a camp and have to wait, this place is a heterotopia. The project draws on the parallels between heterotopia and the concept of play, forming the basis for the development of nostopia; a playce that feels like home. This research investigates whether a play-centered approach can transform Mavrovouni into a nostopia.
The three homes along the routes were mapped and analysed to gain insight in their spatial characteristics. Ethnographic research conducted during a field trip to Mavrovouni provided insights into the daily lives of its residents, focusing on their use of space and children’s play behavior.
Findings revealed a pressing need for safety, agency, and belonging. This was broken down into concrete design objectives. By using the objective tree and a conceptual model several visionary scenarios were developed. Patterns were derived from ethnographic insights and further supported by literature, anchoring the scenarios within the spatial context of the camp.
The resulting pattern language is not only accessible to design professionals but also to non-experts through an accompanying game. The initial concepts and requirements for the game are outlined. The scenario maps and pattern language were used to envision an alternate future for Mavrovouni, reimagining it into a playce like home. ... Read more

Excessive carbon emission has led to global warming, resulting in climate change. Due to this, the natural carbon and water cycles are disbalanced leading to extreme (water-related) events, such as flooding, periods of drought and diminished water quality. The degradation of ecosystems and threat to human survival are direct consequences of this process.


There is an urgency to act in the upcoming seven years to remain below the 1,5 degree global temperature rise. Aside from reducing CO2 emissions in long-term processes, carbon capturing is crucial to achieve short-term ambitions. Therefore, this study investigates the implementation of (nature-based) carbon sinks strategies, using water(bodies) as a tool, in North-West Europe..

This report fills the gap of knowledge on how to implement water-based decarbonization through spatial interventions in North-West Europe.
Firstly, the technical aspects of water-based decarbonization are studied by reviewing existing literature, providing the required spatial conditions for the implementation of water-related carbon sinks. The historical and current conditions in North-West Europe are mapped and analysed. Comparing these results, an evidence-based selection of feasible intervention areas are determined.


Our analysis shows that the EuroDelta is the strategic location for the spatial vision for North-West Europe. There is a need for a paradigm shift to restore the self-sustaining system of the Delta, demanding Nature Based Solutions. Wetland restoration is the most efficient, low cost approach of climate change mitigation as the free, well-functioning services of these carbon sinks naturally make way for long-term restoration of the natural balance and societal well-being. They should be restored in original historical sites and the Dutch Delta is suitable. Therefore bottom-up approaches are required in global visions as wetlands restoration is context-specific.

We conclude that de Krimpenerwaard polder and the Port of Rotterdam are effective, feasible, and inclusive solutions to tackle both climate change and societal challenges while providing long-term water-resilience and livability through all scales. Agricultural sectors will shift to sustainable farming and (port-)industries are held accountable for their emission. A limitation is the disregard on the emission of methane which in further research should be taken into account.
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