Biodiverse Resilient Playscape

Abstract

With rapid urbanisation and urban sprawl, biodiversity in Netherlands is rapidly declining with 70% reduction of species since the 1900. TU Delft campus is part The Hague-Rotterdam metropolitan region and an important green-blue connector with the surrounding forest-meadow-river landscape. However, there is limited opportunities in the human-centric campus to accommodate other species. Also, with the added pressure of climate change, the campus experiences more intense precipitation and longer drier periods. The lack of a stimulating environment falls short in igniting a sense of environmental stewardship which would contribute to sustainable practices for the urban ecosystem. In view of the situation, TU Delft is envisioned as a biodiverse, climate resilient and playful campus that engages humans, the built environment, plants and animals. The approach of the project is guided by the key principles and tool kits generated from case studies and theories. 20 existing fauna species in Delft are identified to allow for the consideration of potential species to be accommodated in the campus. Strategies of different scales are implemented to achieve the redefined campus. Through understanding the landscape characteristics on the regional scale, the surrounding landscape characteristics of forest, river and wet meadow is extended and introduced into the campus. Patches and corridors are improved and increased through methods such as multi-tiered planting. A living machine is designed on the TU North with a cleansing biotope system to ensure good quality water for habitat creation and play. Mobility network is redesigned to transform streets into parks and introduce green tram lines. Buildings are involved in the creation of vibrant campus by providing opportunities for human play, hosting habitats and storing water. The project involves stakeholders through engagement with the Green Manager of the Campus, Rene Hoonhout and received consultation from specialist of landscape engineering, landscape architecture and biologist. There is an ONSITE construction plan for the improvement of the banks of a canal within the campus. This project creates a framework for cities that aspires to become more biodiverse, climate adaptive and vibrant. TU Delft campus shall become an exciting and fun campus city for all, with an ecosystem that supports other species apart from humans. During extreme climate scenarios, the campus is also able to cope with heat and water stress with its self-regulating system.