Productive Postwar Neighbourhoods
A pattern-based approach to integrating urban manufacturing in postwar neighbourhoods while maintaining liveability and spatial quality
A.M. de Boer (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
R.J. Dijkstra – Mentor (TU Delft - Urban Design)
B. Hausleitner – Mentor (TU Delft - Urban Design)
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Abstract
This thesis aims to understand how urban manufacturing can be integrated into postwar neighbourhoods in ways that support spatial quality and liveability. While mixed-use development is increasingly promoted, manufacturing is often seen as incompatible with residential environments. The research therefore examines the specific spatial and regulatory challenges of introducing production into existing neighbourhoods and develops a pattern language that offers guidance for doing so responsibly.
The thesis is situated within the context of postwar neighbourhoods, with a particular focus on garden city high-rise areas. Analyses of these neighbourhoods in the metropolitan region of The Hague–Rotterdam reveal spatial opportunities for integrating urban manufacturing across multiple scales, including the dwelling, building, block, and infrastructural levels. In addition, international examples of mixed manufacturing–residential building blocks and on-site observations are analysed to understand how such integrations are successfully realised elsewhere.
These insights inform the development of a pattern language, which is subsequently tested through a design for the Nolensbuurt in Schiedam. For this, the findings from all preceding analyses are synthesised to guide interventions across scales within the neighbourhood. The results demonstrate that manufacturing can be integrated in ways that activate underused spaces, enhance spatial quality, and maintain liveability within postwar neighbourhoods.