How to deal with #climatechange and #biodiversityloss on monumental and protected sites? This question was central to a #natureinclusive design atelier by Provincie Utrecht that I was invited to chair earlier this month. The atelier was setting the agenda for the due renewal of the public space in an exceptionally picturesque small Dutch village. Kamerik, a true gem, and because of it’s beauty State protected village since 1966.
And indeed: urban heat islands, sagging-in soil and heavy rains are current urgencies that are also relevant in locations protected due to their historic visual quality. It was great to see the experts Jip Louwe Kooijmans, Hiltrud Pötz and Marieke de Keijzer lining up multiple suggestions and improvement porposals for sustainable development based upon #natureinclusive design.
Im am truly thankful for their contributions, and the comprehensive introduction of the case by Mariëlle Wetter. I was glad to collect so much relevant input for the team of Gemeente Woerden (of which Kamerik is a part of). Thanks also to Felix Klaar for his dedicated companionship and tracking down the input for the future design for the public space to be made by landscape architect BoschSlabbers landscape architects. The feedback of the client is encouraging: They are enthousiastic about the results, and want to hold more #natureinclusive ateliers for other sites in their municipality!
Image source: Geneanet / Utrecht Open Data