Bridging past and future

Abstract

This thesis explores the future of Amsterdam and the broader metropolitan region, all deeply influenced by a rich history of water management practices. Against this backdrop, the rising challenges of climate change are increasingly threatening the Dutch delta region. Recognising the historical significance and heritage associated with Amsterdam’s water structures, this research aims to strengthen these assets to integrate a resilient water system with a strategy for sustainable heritage development in Amsterdam.
Qualitative and quantitative research have been combined to gain a better understanding of the water problems caused by climate change, enrich the understanding of contemporary cultural heritage values that are associated with the water system and look for spatial potential for urban transformation regarding water-related heritage. The integrated typology forms the basis for the design project, emphasising which design qualities can be improved in which places in the city.
In the design project, the maximisation method maximises the landscape and cultural resilience and by integrating these extremes it is intended to create the most sustainable urban plan. In parallel a pattern language will be developed that aims to generate design solutions that support the design qualities aimed for in this project.
The maximisation experiments and pattern language are combined into the integrated urban transformation plan and integrated implementation on the neighbourhood scale with two example neighbourhoods which show how different neighbourhood types can strengthen their water identity by integrating resilience water management with sustainable heritage development. Ultimately bridging past and future and creating a resilient urban environment.