People watch, let Nature build

Not any element describes the cultural identity better the Netherlands better than water. Who takes a look at the maps of Netherland spread through the centuries, realizes how structuring the water is for the Delta. The Dutch don’t panic when there is a large storm flood or when the riverbanks are flooded again. They deal with the water ingenious and with a lot of knowledge, if they want to control, stop or guide. They use it in their advantage, at sea or in the harbour, which is the link between the maritime world and the economy of the hinterland. They enjoy the beauty of the water and can enjoy it intensely by swimming, sailing and even ice-skating. The knowledge and technology that the Dutch use for centuries in dealing with water, are a source of amazement for the rest of the world. With the changing climate –if this is temporarily or structural, if it is created by mankind or is caused by a natural cyclus- the water urges for action. It rains more and heavier, the rivers are overflowing and not least of all the sea level rises. Again all eyes are focused on the Dutch; how are they going to deal with this? And what can the rest of the world learn from this? Nationwide there is a shift in dealing with water, water is no longer seen as the enemy. It is no longer kept out, but more and more plans show that water is treated as a friend. Polders are allowed to flood, dams are opened, living areas are build in and on the water, dikes and dunes are combined, rivers are widened. Engineers and designers learn to speak each others language and the creativity in relation to water gets a new impulse. The graduation project 'People watch, let Nature build' deals with a solution on the sweet water reserve of the Netherlands, by using natural forces in combination with civil engineering works.Architecture and The Built EnvironmentUrbanismLandscape Architectur