Liquid Land
Regaining balance between agriculture and nature with historic inspirations
F. Schwegman (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Inge Bobbink – Mentor (TU Delft - Landscape Architecture)
M Spaans – Mentor (TU Delft - Urban Development Management)
C.H.E. van Ees – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Education and Student Affairs)
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Abstract
The Achterhoek region of the Netherlands, with its sandy soils and elevated terrain, faces significant climate challenges, particularly droughts caused by changing weather patterns. Agriculture and nature in this area depend heavily on water, yet the intensification of industrial farming has disrupted the balance between these systems. This research addresses the question: “How can landscape architecture reintegrate water management, nature, and agriculture to enhance climate resilience, increase biodiversity, and secure a sustainable future for farmers?”
Through historical analysis, it is evident that traditional farming methods once maintained a natural balance between agriculture and the environment. However, industrialization has disrupted this harmony. By drawing inspiration from past systems like flowing meadows and cooperative farming communities (Marken), modern design strategies can help restore this balance. Projects such as Urtica de Vijfsprong and het Lankheet offer examples of how nature-inclusive approaches can improve biodiversity and drought resilience, while diversifying income sources for farmers.
A water-based design strategy is proposed, adapting land use to natural water levels to ensure long-term sustainability. This includes raising groundwater levels, reintegrating natural habitats into farmland, and encouraging cooperative farming models to enhance nutrient recycling and reduce costs. With these strategies, a blueprint is proposed for the region of Nettelhorst, transforming it into a model of sustainable agriculture, balancing the needs of nature, water management, and farming. Landscape architecture can play a crucial role in restoring this balance by addressing core issues and offering holistic, system-based solutions.
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