The continuous immigration around the world increases ethnic diversity in major
cities. At the same time, the growing population, urbanization, and crowding in cities negatively impact well-being, bringing to the forefront the need for integrating restorative environments. In the context of multi-ethnic cities, there is a pressing need for integration to foster social cohesion and well-being. This thesis challenges these issues, with a case study of South Rotterdam, an ethnically segregated multi-ethnic area, with the reported need for improved quality of public space, safer urban environments, and opportunities for developing trust among residents. This thesis illustrates a methodology for designing public spaces that promote ethnic diversity by stimulating inter-ethnic social interaction in restorative environments.
I approach this assignment by proposing a network of public spaces that encourages participation in public life to stimulate social interaction, improving the social cohesion and well-being of residents in the area. To develop the network, I introduced a multi-method approach in both research and design, by integrating computational tools for urban design. Bringing together three disciplines, urban design, landscape architecture, and urban analytics, I propounded specific design strategies for the formation of the network and
the transformation of public space, toward inclusive restorative landscapes that promote diversity.
The outcomes of this project determined that implementing multi-methods approaches in urban design requires careful consideration and acknowledgment of the extent to which each method can be applied. However, there is great potential in advancing knowledge through different perspectives and creating innovative methodologies to approach such projects.
Finally, public space design has a promising opportunity to accommodate places that bring people together and increase feelings of belonging and trust, while embracing diversity. By reimagining the value of the street, I illustrate a strengthened public space that accommodates diverse activities in South Rotterdam, enhancing shared spaces and identity expression in public spaces. ... Read more

The Port of Rotterdam has always been a pivotal player in the energy sector. Predominantly, in the oil-based generation of energy and the consequent export of raw material. However, there is a need for a systemic shift in the energy sector as the Netherlands embarks toward its goal to become 100% carbon neutral by 2050.
An analysis of the prevalent scenario revealed that the fossil-based energy production systems are not only embedded in the physical infrastructure of the region (Zuid Holland) but also in its social, economic and geopolitical networks. This means that as we phase out fossil fuels, its implications will be witnessed on both the local as well as global scales. Keeping this in mind, “Transtopia” aims to accelerate the transition towards renewable energy (production - consumption) by proposing synergies between the Port of Rotterdam and the rest of the Zuid Holland region.
Primarily, by decentralizing, diversifying renewable energy production, and activating the potentialities of its regional landscapes to harness energy. It proposes endogenous methods of co-creating energy landscapes aimed to establish a resilient and adaptable energy system. One where all sectors of society (civil, public and private) can contribute and play an active role in facilitating this transition. Consequently, the spatial relations between areas of energy consumption and production can be seen as activators of urban development in Zuid Holland. Not only by strengthening the economic resilience of the region in face of the energy transition, but also ensuring social integration in this change by co-creating new infrastructure initiated by a collaboration of active sectors.
Additionally, Transtopia focuses on the transformation of the port into a renewable energy hub. Since selected renewable energy such as solar, wind and biomass will be produced locally, the port becomes a backbone for the production and distribution of hydrogen in the Netherlands and around the globe. As an energy hub, the port will also facilitate research and innovation for renewable energy, establishing collaborations with universities and institutions to constantly improve the functionality of the newly integrated renewable energy systems.
Transtopia aims to accelerate energy transition, focusing on engaging multiple stakeholders by creating policies. Thereby ensuring different levels of systems and synergies, which will eventually transform the urban environment into a symbiotic landscape, with a resilient and inclusive energy system that creates opportunities for economic growth. ... Read more