This research explores how layered cultural heritage can serve as a guiding framework for spatial design, using the park Arentsburgh area in Voorburg, the Netherlands, as a case study. The park Arentsburgh area is historically rich yet spatially fragmented site, existing of the archaeological remains UNESCO World Heritage site Forum Hadriani, the former 17th century estates Hoekenburg, Arentsburgh and Heeswijk, and the national monument park Arentsburgh. Despite its monumental designation, much of the area’s historical depth remains underrepresented or physically disrupted by modern development. In response to this condition, the following research question is applied: “What landscape strategies can be developed and applied to visualise different layers of heritage above ground?”

The different layers are classified within a landscape biography offering a conceptual structure for understanding their varying degrees of continuity and spatial expression. Hidden Heritage (Forum Hadriani), where traces are still present but not represented above the surface. Lost Heritage (17th century Estates, the traces have been removed from the landscape and can only be recalled through historical maps and writing. Damaged Heritage (Landscape park), physically present in the landscape, however its spatial integrity has been partially compromised by developments.

This research develops landscape strategies to visualise and reinterpret historical layers in the fragmented site of the park Arentsburgh area. Building on the classification of heritage into Hidden, Lost, and Damaged categories, the strategies are extracted by looking at the larger context and relevant reference projects for each layer. Strategies for Hidden Heritage are emphasising original scale, highlighting underlying spatial structures and reinterpreting historical elements through new materials. Strategies for Lost Heritage are improving spatial characteristics tied to historical parcellation, reconstructing garden typologies where possible and reinstating historical materials. Strategies for Damaged Heritage are re-establishing internal connections, restoring sightlines and using consistent materials to reinforce spatial coherence. The design process is structured as a collage, drawing from the design strategies and overlapping historical materials and spatial traces to assemble a coherent yet layered landscape design for the park Arentsburgh area. Grounded in the concept of palimpsest and informed by academic eclecticism, the project seeks not to replicate the past but to synthesise its traces into a contemporary spatial framework. The aim is to integrate the multiple historical layers into a landscape design that not only makes heritage legible but also supports public functions.