Adaptive reuse of Cold War heritage: where nature meets history
M. Pengo (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
A.W. Hermkens – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
I. Nevzgodin – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
This graduation report investigates the adaptive reuse case of the former Soesterberg airbase through the transformation of abandoned aircraft shelters into a center for research for nature and biodiversity, and museum. Following the decommissioning of the military site, the area gradually evolved into a protected natural landscape with ecosystems developing throughout the entire airbase. Specific shelters are strategically maintained: some are currently occupied, some are intentionally left to decay. This raises concerns regarding a long-term vision for the preservation of such military heritage. This project proposal explores how architectural interventions can act as mediators between biodiversity, heritage preservation, and public accessibility whilst respecting the core values of the site. Through context analysis, case studies and transformation research a strategy for intervention is elaborated. The proposal introduces a program that develops across three unused shelters and combines them with outdoor ecological study fields and public walking routes. The main intervention case focuses on one of the shelters with function of museum and educational center, in which the shelter is preserved through an arch structure. This newly introduced climatic layer protects the deteriorating World War II building whilst allowing it to be the main exhibit element.