Human Well-being and Ecological Potential for Public Space in dense Urban Environments
J.E. Vellinga (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
R.J. Dijkstra – Mentor (TU Delft - Urban Design)
A. Wandl – Mentor (TU Delft - Environmental Technology and Design)
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Abstract
Urban environments in the Netherlands are under a lot of pressure. Deca des of urbanization, emitting greenhouse gasses and diminishing ecology have created far going consequences for our living environments. Cities are experiencing increasing heatwaves, heavier and more frequent rain fall, social problems are getting more and more severe, and congestion is causing much needed space to be taken to widen roads mostly for individual car users.
This research gives an insight in a new potential way of designing our public space that prioritizes sustainable mobility and frees up space for climate and ecological interventions. The research includes a design for Delfshaven, one of the densest neighbourhoods of the Netherlands. The design integrates ecological, mobility, social and climate adaptive so lutions that benefit both the natural world as well as the human world significantly. The project achieves un-paving around 45% of public space and creating a continuous network of walkable natural spaces. Special attention is paid to kids, aiming to rejuvenate the idea of kids playing out side and developing important social skills at a young age. The nature-in clusive design has the potential to increase physical- and mental health of all residents significantly. This does not only benefit us directly but can theoretically reduce healthcare costs and earn back funds needed for the transformation. Timeframes and limitations are included to create a comprehensive vision for the future. Overall, the project gives a full image of what the future of Dutch cities could look like and how we can benefit from this change.