This project explores how the energy transition will impact the cities we live in, how to design living environments, and what we as urban designers can do to preserve quality of life within current shifts.
It delves into the intersection of urban design, sustainable low-tech energy practices from the past, and the well-being of urban communities.
“Sometimes, the most advanced technology is a stone” – Unknown
CONTENT
1 INTRODUCTION:
1.1 Energy Transition in the Shadow of War
1.2 Energy and the Shaping of Dutch Landscape
1.3 Context of Renewable Sources
1.4 The Low-Tech Lens: A Research Approach
2 EXPLORATION
2.1 Energy Compas
2.2 Guiding Principles of LOW-TECH Urban Design
2.3 Library of Low-tech methods and features
3 AREA CHOSEN: GRONINGEN INDUSTRIEBUURT
3.1 Context of Groningen
3.2 Site Selection Criteria
3.3 General Impression of the site
3.4 Tasks and Objectives
4 STRATEGY
4.1 Guiding Principles of Sustainable Urban Design
4.2 A Robust Green-Blue Network
4.3 A New Transportation System
4.4 Low-Tech Solutions in Cargo and Logistics
4.5 Low-Tech Materials in Urban Design
4.6 Urban Design’s Influence on Sustainable Food Production
4.7 Low-Tech Climate Regulation with Natural Elements
5 LOW-TECH HAVENS
5.1 New Parks and Blue-Green Network
5.2 Sustainable Low-Tech Neighborhoods
6 APPENDICES
Appendix A: Photos of Maquette
Appendix B: Site Analysis Maps
7 REFERENCES
8 Acknowledgments
ENERGY TRANSITION IN THE SHADOW OF WAR
"Human-induced climate change and the war on Ukraine have the same roots -- fossil fuels -- and our dependence on them."
Svitlana Krakovska, head of Applied Climatology Laboratory, member of delegation Ukarine at a major UN climate conference, 2022
‘[e]nergy markets and policies have changed as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, not just for the time being, but for decades to come. The environmental case for clean energy needed no reinforcement, but the economic arguments in favour of cost-competitive and affordable clean technologies are now stronger – and so too is the energy security case. This alignment of economic, climate and security priorities has already started to move the dial towards a better outcome for the world’s people and for the planet.’
IEA, World Energy Outlook 2022, Executive Summary, at 26
I’m writing my thesis amidst the turmoil of a full-scale war. This challenging period is sparking a search for hope. As an urban designer from Russia, I’m deeply considering the role during these critical times.
Journalists have been reporting that the war is speeding up the energy transition. Indeed, this conflict is having a profound impact on reshaping the global energy system. This situation fosters a belief in the necessity of moving away from old energy habits, rethinking our approach to growth, and perhaps even embracing a world that that’s not all about ‘more is better’
While working on my thesis, these reflections frequently surface. It’s an odd mix of confronting the harsh reality of the present while also considering how this chaos might drive us towards innovative paths. It’s not merely about surviving these times; it’s about pondering whether we could be the architects of a fundamentally different future.
The prevailing belief in eternal technological progress and a high-tech sustainable society—where we can maintain our current lifestyles by simply swapping fossil fuels for clean energy—is a notion many take for granted. While transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change, it’s becoming clear that this shift alone might not suffice to foster truly sustainable cities.
Therefore, as we navigate these tumultuous times, it becomes essential to explore beyond just the energy transition. We must consider holistic approaches that encompass not only technological innovations but also changes in lifestyle and societal values, aiming for a balanced and sustainable future for all.
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
There is one and probably only one aspect that i am really struggling to adapt to since moving from Russia to the Netherlands.
The energy bills.
Growing up, I was nurtured on the belief that energy is almost as ubiquitous as air—readily available to everyone, almost free, and inexhaustible. Homes are heated to 25 degrees Celsius when it is -30 C outside and you can’t adjust it; night streets are flooded with light, and in spring, the first flowers grow along the warm water pipes.
Now, I understand that this is a complete illusion. My country lives in a paradigm of resource autocracy, with 35 percent of emissions coming from outdated infrastructure. But for people, energy seems as if it’s always there, for everyone, never-ending.
Here is absolutely different. We discuss how a house is heated upon visiting, the set number on heating devices is a prime reason for conflicts in student houses. It is in a political discourse.
Energy is not merely a resource; it’s the underlying currency of all our activities, permeating every aspect of our daily lives. Whether it’s the clothes we wear, the food we consume, or the music we listen to - there are Joules embedded.
Energy profoundly shapes our social, mental, but also physical landscapes, molding the very contours of our environments.
This dialogue around energy, its conservation, and the embrace of renewable sources marks a significant cultural and environmental shift from my experiences in Russia. The energy transition is therefore not only a technical one socio-economic as well as spatial transition.
WOOD ENERGY PEAT ENERGY WIND ENERGY FOSSIL FUELS MODERN RENEWABLES
Large-scale deforestation in the region
Human-made polders surrounded by dykes were constructed
Windmills and ‘droogmakerijen’
Infrastructure for the transmission of electricity became the dominant component ?
SOURCE: de Jong, Jolanda, and Sven Stremke. “Evolution of Energy Landscapes: A Regional Case Study in the Western Netherlands.” Sustainability (2020): 1-28.
Holland’s name comes from the Old Dutch “holtlant ”, meaning “woodland,” a nod to the once dense forests in the region. Large-scale deforestation followed as firewood became essential for daily life, reshaping the landscape into farmland and cities over time.
Through centuries, the Dutch landscape has been profoundly shaped by centuries of energy harvesting practices.
Historically, the Dutch landscape transitioned through several energy periods, each introducing its own mark on the environment. Initially, wood provided the primary source of energy, used for heating and cooking. As wood became scarce, the Netherlands turned to peat, extracting vast amounts from their lands, which significantly altered the topography and hydrology of the region. This extraction not only fueled homes and industries but also led to the creation of lakes and canals, forever changing the Dutch landscape.
The introduction of wind energy marked another significant transformation. Windmills, initially used to grind grain, became instrumental in draining water from the low-lying lands to reclaim it for agriculture and settlement, a process critical to the country’s development. These windmills, symbols of Dutch innovation and resilience, underscored the Netherlands’ mastery over its environment and its relentless pursuit of sustainable living practices.
As the world entered the industrial age, fossil fuels became the dominant energy source, leading to new forms of landscape alterations.
In recent decades, the shift towards modern renewables has begun to imprint a new layer onto the Dutch landscape.
Throughout these transitions, the Dutch have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to adapt their energy practices to the needs of their time, always with a keen eye on the future. The energy landscape in the Netherlands is a testament to this adaptability and foresight, showcasing a harmonious blend of history, innovation, and a deep respect for the environment.
TIMELINE AND CONCLUSIONS ON THE HISTORY OF THE NETHERLANDS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ENERGY PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION
The history of energy production in the Netherlands reveals a complex interplay between technological innovation, economic growth, and environmental transformation. Over 60,000 hectares of land turned into water due to peat digging. The construction of canals for peat transport illustrates the interplay between energy production and technological development, setting the stage for the Netherlands’ continued leadership in water management and engineering.
TILL 1110S
“EARLY
MIDDLE AGES” AND USE OF WOOD
In the Netherlands in medival times wood played a crucial role in energy supply, providing heat, fuel for cooking, and supporting burgeoning industries.
Forests also provided for building materials and the production of charcoal, a requisite for metalwork and other crafts.
The exploitation of woodland for these purposes led to significant changes in the landscape, with deforestation becoming a notable issue as the population grew and the demand for wood increased.
The intensive use of wood led to widespread deforestation, prompting early efforts in sustainable forest management.
1100S - 1500S
PRE-INDUSTRIAL USE OF FOSSIL FUELS
Transitioning from wood, the Dutch began to exploit peat and coal, fundamentally changing their energy and landscape.
The introduction of peat mining, especially in Antwerp during the 1100s, marked the start of a more intensive phase of deforestation
This period saw a rise in the urbanization and industrialization that characterized the Dutch Golden Age, setting the stage for subsequent economic and social transformations.
SOURCE: De Decker, Kris. “Medieval Smokestacks: Fossil Fuels in Pre-industrial Times.” LOW←TECH MAGAZINE. September 29, 2011. https://solar.lowtechmagazine.com/2011/09/medieval-smokestacks-fossil-fuels-in-pre-industrial-times/.
Illustration: peat fuelled glass manufacturing in the Netherlands, 1700s.
Illustration: A Woodland Road with Travelers Jan Brueghel the Elder , 1670s.
1500S - 1600S
URBAN REVIVAL AND INDUSTRIAL GROWTH
Growth of cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp, leading to increased industrial activity
This urban growth spurred technological advancements, but also led to environmental alterations as land was converted for industrial use.
The urban revival led to increased energy demand, driving technological advancements and environmental changes: destruction of the landscape and loss of agricultural land.
The Dutch and Flemish were famous for their use of wind technology, but thermal energy from peat was essential. Development of new tools to mine peat below the water level.
1600S - 1700S
PEAT MINING IN THE NORTH AND CANAL DIGGING
Shift to Northern Provinces: Mining shifted to Friesland, Groningen, and Drenthe, requiring extensive canal infrastructure.
Around 700 km of canals were built specifically for turf transport. Some peat bogs were converted into agricultural land.
The shift to the northern provinces and the construction of canals marked a new phase in energy production, reflecting adaptability and economic growth.
Over 60,000 hectares of land turned into water due to peat digging.
Peat digging had lasting effects on the landscape, with some areas still remaining as nature reserves.
Illustration: peat fuelled glass manufacturing in the Netherlands, 1700s.
Image: Walzwerk Neustadt-Eberswalde, Carl Blechen, circa 1830
1700S - 1800S
THE NETHERLANDS, WITH ITS EXTENSIVE WINDMILL NETWORK, BECOMES A LEADER IN WIND ENERGY.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Netherlands honed its expertise in wind energy through its vast network of windmills.
Fun fact: The Netherlands had 5 times more windmills in 1850 than it has wind turbines today
Windmills, iconic in the Dutch landscape, were used extensively not just for milling grain but for land drainage and other industrial applications.
Deforestation continued due to reliance on wood and coal, leading to more pronounced environmental effects and altering the Dutch landscape significantly.
Coal mining began to have noticeable impacts on the landscape.
1800S - 1900S
THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION LED TO COAL BECOMING A DOMINANT ENERGY SOURCE
The Industrial Revolution brought the advent of coal as a major energy source. The Netherlands likely followed global trends, focusing on coal and embracing emerging technologies such as steam engines.
In the 19th century, the discovery of oil also began to transform the energy landscape.
The use of coal and other fossil fuels led to significant air and water pollution and landscape alteration due to mining.
However, these developments also powered new technologies and economic growth, with the environmental costs becoming an increasing concern.
Image: Evening Landscape: A Windmill by a Stream by Jacob van Ruisdael
Image: Koninklijke Hoogovens from the air
1900S - 2020S
THE 20TH CENTURY SAW THE RISE OF OIL AND NATURAL GAS AS DOMINANT GLOBAL ENERGY SOURCES
Throughout the 20th century, oil and natural gas became the primary energy sources worldwide.
In the Netherlands, a major part of the power generation shifted towards these resources with the associated environmental impact leading to significant air and water pollution.
The latter part of the century saw increased interest in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
The gas f rom the Groningen field has been a major source of energy for the Netherlands and has contributed significantly to the country’s economy. However, over the years, the gas extraction has led to earthquakes and damages to buildings and infrastructure in the region, leading to a decision to gradually reduce gas production from the Groningen field.
The total gross energy consumption of the Netherlands now amounts to approximately 3,087 PJ9. This is the summed generation of electricity, heat and fuels (including conversion and transport losses), which for convenience is expressed in the universal unit of energy, the (Peta)Joule.
Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency. "Ruimtelijke Verkenning Energie en Klimaat." January 2018.
NOW
RENEWABLE ENERGY GROWTH
The environmental impac t of energy production became a global concern, leading to international agreements on climate change.
In 2020, 64.2% of the power generated in the Netherlands came from gas-fired thermal power.
Today, the Netherlands is undergoing a transformative shift towards renewable energy, aiming to generate up to 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, focusing on wind and solar power.
Alongside this, there has been a notable interest in nuclear and renewable energy, highlighting a progressive attitude towards combating climate change and reducing the environmental footprint of energy production.
Continued reliance on fossil fuels led to significant air and water pollution.
Image: Drilling tower with flare stack above Groningen gas field
The exact path of the energy transition remains uncertain. Hovewer, we do have a guiding framework in the form of forecasts. I’m referring to the Netherlands’ national energy system plan, outlined by the government. This plan can serve as our compass for navigating the future of energy transition.
2025-2030
The energy transition is underway. We’re greening our electricity with new offshore wind farms and more land-based solar and wind power, while still relying heavily on oil and gas.
Green hydrogen production is still small, but we’re starting to see reductions in CO2 emissions thanks to energy efficiency improvements and less energy use.
The government’s boosting these efforts by insulating buildings and deploying more heat pumps Even with these steps, our energy system’s reaching its limits, as seen by grid congestion
Significant shifts in energy are expected: more electric vehicles on the road, increased use of heat pumps, and industrial electrification.
Renewable heating and energy storage will become more crucial, with green gas usage growing due to blending mandates. Greenhouse heating will increasingly rely on renewable energy, with residual fossil heat being phased out in favor of sources like geothermal.
Industry plays a key role, especially with offshore wind, driving a sharp rise in CO2-free electricity use, and green hydrogen production is beginning to scale. Hydrogen imports are starting, necessitating a national hydrogen transport network.
Despite efforts to reinforce the electricity infrastructure, grid congestion remains a challenge, and coordination becomes more crucial due to the interconnectedness of these developments.
SOURCE: Netherlands. Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat. Nationaal Plan Energiesysteem. The Hague: Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat, 2023.
TILL 2025
We’ll see more CO2-free electricity, especially from offshore wind. Electricity excess will be stored or turned into green hydrogen, increasingly produced at sea and sent to land via pipelines Underground hydrogen storage will also rise for flexible use. By 2035, we expect a new nuclear plant operational, bringing emissions from the electricity chain down to zero.
According to NPE, End use in 2050 will decrease by more than 900 PJ if significant savings are made (25%)
2035-2050
This shift will likely lead to a fully climate-neutral energy system before 2050. 2030-2035
This phase requires flexible generation options for when renewable sources aren’t available. Demand for CO2-free hydrogen will climb in various sectors, with green hydrogen production ramping up and blue hydrogen imports as a supplement. Heat networks and the push for heat pumps will continue, and heavy road traffic will shift towards electric vehicles. Although reliance on carbon carriers for electricity will drop, temporary use of bio raw materials and natural gas with CCS may still be needed for CO2free adjustable power. The use of sustainable carbon in products and fuels will also grow, leading to an increase in the import of bio raw materials.
CO2-free electricity will soar with new nuclear plants and more renewables. Offshore wind will keep up, and we’ll make hydrogen directly at sea. This phase sees the energy system knitting closely with neighboring countries and energy hubs in the North Sea.
Post-2035, sustainable carriers will start replacing fossil materials in the chemical industry, and sustainable fuels will gain ground in international aviation and shipping. If hydrogen and CO2-free electricity are plentiful, we can boost synthetic carbon carrier production.
However, the global supply of these sustainable carriers will tighten, pushing us towards electric and hydrogen solutions where alternatives are scarce or non-existent.
One of the main areas of potential for renewable energy in the Netherlands is offshore wind power. The country has one of the largest offshore wind energy potentials in Europe due to its location on the North Sea. According to the Dutch government, the country aims to have a total of 11.5 gigawatts of offshore wind power capacity installed by 2030, which would be one of the highest levels in the world. The Netherlands also has potential for other forms of renewable energy, such as biomass and geothermal energy, although these sources are less developed than offshore wind and solar power.
biomass hydro power wind energy geothermal solar energy
SOURCE: Sijmons, Dirk, Jasper Hugtenburg, Anton van Hoorn, and Fred Feddes. Landscape and Energy: Designing Transition. Nai010 Publishers, 2014.
TECHNOLOGY WILL SAVE US .
THROUGH ENDLESS INNOVATIONS AND EFFICIENCY GAINS, WILL MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR OUR ECONOMIC GROWTH AND GROWTH IN ENERGY USE TO BE COMBINED WITH REDUCING OUR ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT.
THE ENERGY TRANSITION CAN BE DEFINED AND SOLVED AS A TECHNICAL PROBLEM TO BE ISOLATED.
The book ‘Ruimtelijke Verkenning Energie en Klimaat’ featuring research of the NRGlab has been published. The book is a result of the ‘Energie en Ruimte’ project that was conducted by Posad, FABRICations, H+N+S, Dirk Sijmons, Studio Marco Vermeulen, Ruimtevolk and the NRGlab/Wageningen University (2017-2018).
CONTEXT OF RENEWABLE SOURCES
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES HAVE LOW POWER DENSITY
TO PRODUCE 1 WATT YOU NEED FOLLOWING AMOUNT OF SPACE:
Renewable energy sources, unlike fossil fuels, require larger spaces to produce the same amount of energy.
This is illustrated by the power density comparison: producing one watt with solar panels requires 1500m², with wind energy 1m², while fossil fuels like gas and coal need only 5cm² and 10cm² respectively.
This stark contrast highlights the spatial challenges when integrating renewable energy sources into the existing landscape and infrastructure.
Source: Smil, Vaclav (2008). “Energy in Nature and Society: General Energetics of Complex Systems”. The MIT Press. Page 383.
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES HAVE AN INTERMITTEND NATURE
Here is the graph for one wind farm performance, where each day is a different line
The second diagram reveals the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation, specifically wind energy.
Performance data from a wind farm show significant variability in daily energy output, which is subject to environmental conditions.
Each line on the graph represents a different day’s energy production, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of wind energy.
This presents unique challenges in maintaining a stable energy supply and necessitates solutions for energy storage and grid management to counteract the intermittency of renewable sources.
Source: INITIATIVE, MIT ENERGY. “Managing large-scale penetration of intermittent renewables.” (2012).
RENEABLE ENERGY IS NOT AN ALTERNATIVE
Green electricity is not generated by a “clean” energy source, but by a “cleaner” energy source. Solar panels, wind turbines and wood pellets do not use gas or coal during their operation, but they do require energy for their production (and since they are mostly produced far away from the place where they are used these figures do not show up in national statistics of energy consumption).
While I work on my thesis, some innovative solutions to these issues have already emerged. Innovations include the development of wooden turbine blades and the newfound possibility of blade recycling. However, the energy consumed during production and the impact of these turbines on ecology and the landscape still pose significant challenges
Source: Low-tech Magazine. 2019. “Wooden Wind Turbines.” Published June 25. Accessed October 22, 2023. https://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2019/06/wooden-wind-turbines.html.
RENEABLE ENERGY DEMAND MORE DEVELOPED INFRASTRUCTURE AND HAVE A LOW EFFICIENCY COEFFICIENT
“FOR ONE KWH NOT USED, THERE ARE THREE TO EIGHT THAT DO NOT NEED TO BE GENERATED”.
From the interview with BORIS HOCKS, Researcher/Engineer, director of Generation.Energy
The energy required to build and maintain the storage infrastructure and the extra renewable power plants need to be taken into account when conducting a life cycle analysis of a renewable power grid. In fact, research has shown that it can be more energy efficient to curtail renewable power from wind turbines than to store it, because the energy needed to manufacture storage and operate it (which involves chargedischarge losses) surpasses the energy that is lost through curtailment.
WAIT! WHAT IS WITH THE ENERGY STORAGES?
Energy storage avoids curtailment and it’s the only supply-side strategy that can make a balancing capacity of fossil fuel plants redundant, at least in theory. In practice, the storage of renewable energy runs into several problems.
First of all, while there’s no need to build and maintain a backup infrastructure of fossil fuel power plants, this advantage is negated by the need to build and maintain an energy storage infrastructure. Second, all storage technologies have charging and discharging losses, which results in the need for extra solar panels and wind turbines to compensate for this loss.
The energy required to build and maintain the storage infrastructure and the extra renewable power plants need to be taken into account when conducting a life cycle analysis of a renewable power grid. In fact, research has shown that it can be more energy efficient to curtail renewable power from wind turbines than to store it, because the energy needed to manufacture storage and operate it (which involves charge-discharge losses) surpasses the energy that is lost through curtailment.
If we count on electric cars to store the surplus of renewable electricity, their batteries would need to be 60 times larger than they are today
Schaber, Katrin, Florian Steinke, and Thomas Hamacher. "Managing temporary oversupply from renewables efficiently: electricity storage versus energy sector coupling in Germany." International Energy Workshop, Paris. 2013.
SAVINGS ARE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION, AND IT IS THE FIRST STEP WE SHOULD TAKE.
BUT HOW DOES THIS SAVINGS TASK RELATE TO THE SPATIAL TASK?
CITIES USE AROUND 78% OF THE WORLD’S ENERGY, ACCOUNTING FOR MORE THAN 60% OF ITS GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.
CITIES ARE CRUCIAL IN OUR SHIFT TOWARD SUSTAINABLE LIVING.
18th-century wind-driven sawmill in Utrecht: inspirable example of low-technology in city live now
MANIFESTO
So, In my graduation thesis, I want to manifest and explore the concept of low-tech city
The term ‘low-tech city’, in essence, refers to using urban planning solutions from the past to solve issues arising in the cities of today
I do believe that the answers are out there, and I will have to look a little bit closer into how cities were managed without latest technologies and try to pull those out and use them as my design inspirations. For the research I will look back in history at traditional architecture and design that uses local materials, that can harness systems which have been used for hundreds and hundreds of years in communities.
This is not the antithesis of smart cities, or a complete rejection of latest technology, but an attempt to articulate what is a sufficient minimum and where we can opt out of technology or rely on old techniques and nature-based solutions. An attempt to find methods and criteria for how we can make cities more invulnerable, accessible, and convival.
A low-tech city refers to a city that prioritizes simplicity and sustainability over high technology solutions in its development and operations. The focus is on using traditional, low-tech methods and practices in order to reduce energy consumption and the reliance on expensive technology. The goal of a low-tech city is to create a more self-sufficient, sustainable, and resilient community. This can include initiatives such as urban agriculture, low-carbon transportation options, and community-based waste management systems.
Thus, I aim to create a kind of library/toolbox of low-tech solutions for the management of various resources in urban context and test on an example how an urban environment built on the low-tech principles might look like.
THE LOW-TECH LENS
A low-tech includes objects, systems, techniques, services, know-hows, practises, behaviours and even ways of thinking that use technique and technology according to three principles:
Useful
A low-tech meets the needs that are essential to an individual or community. It contributes to ways of living, producing and consuming that are sound and relevant for all in fields as varied as energy, food, water, waste management, materials, housing, transport, communication, hygiene and even health. By encouraging us to go back to basics, our actions become meaningful.
Accessible
A low-tech must be one that as many people as possible can make their own – both technologically and financially. As such, you must be able to make it and/or repair it locally, so its functioning principles must be simple to understand and its costs adapted to a large part of the population. It encourages the population to be more independent on all levels, and value or work are more evenly distributed.
Sustainable
Eco-designed, resilient, sturdy, repairable, recyclable, agile, functional: a low-tech makes you think and optimise the environmental, social or societal impacts linked to using this technique, at all stages of its life cycle (from design, conception, production, use, end of life) even if it sometimes involves using less technique, and more sharing or collaboration!
LOW-TECH VS ENERGY
Technology has become the idol of our society. Hovewer, technological progress in urban environments quite often focuses on addressing challenges introduced by previous urban developments.
Low-tech underscores the potential in past and often forgotten knowledge and technologies when it comes to designing a sustainable society. Interesting possibilities arise when we combine old practises with new knowledge and new materials, or when we apply old concepts and traditional knowledge to modern cities.
There is one significant common between those low-tech practises: they are inherently energy-efficient.
My research on low-tech in urban design emphasizes energy efficiency.
Low-tech urban design is both a response to and an influencer of the energy nexus, offering a holistic framework that recognizes the complex interdependencies within urban systems. It seeks to create sustainable, resilient, and adaptable urban spaces that respect the past, function in the present, and are prepared for the future, all while being mindful of the intricate dance between energy, the environment, and human well-being.
ENERGY COMPASS
Allocation of Energy for Societal Activities
SOURCE: Sijmons. (2014). Landscape and energy: Designing transition. nai010.
The infographic gives a clear split of energy consumption by human activities, providing insights into potential focal points for urban design interventions. Heating our homes takes up a big piece of the energy pie, signaling a hotspot where we can boost efficiency. The transportation realm too, from cars to cargo ships, is thirsty for energy, marking another area ripe for design solutions.
As I delve into this data, it becomes main tool in guiding my design choices. Pinpointing where energy use is highest allows me to strategically focus on designing sustainable low-tech urban environments.
In the ensuing chapter, I aim to develop a methodology on how to adapt the urban fabric to support high energy efficiency. I’ll contemplate the factors we need to consider: How might we integrate energy-saving measures into the very structure of our cities? Is it possible for urban designers to influence the food sector’s energy footprint through our work?
This infgraphic, therefore, doesn’t just point out the high energy demand areas; it serves as a compass for me, directing the implementation of low-tech, sustainable practices within the urban fabric.
P.S. Looking on the world pie of energie in relation to household is choosen because people consume much more energy outside their homes, for example through the products that they buy.
“Eurostat Statistics Explained: Consumption of Energy,” European Commission, accessed October 22, 2023, https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Consumption_of_energy.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF LOW-TECH URBAN DESIGN
Methodology
The first aspect of the design methodology is the Energy Compass, which examines how each sector’s energy footprint can be influenced through our interventions.
In this research, the focus is on the major contributors to the energy footprint, starting with transportation. Addressing each of these sectors within our living spaces is key to significantly reducing society’s overall energy consumption.
GREEN_BLUE NETWORK
The second foundational element of my design is the natural landscape.
The innate ecosystem services provided by a natural green network play a crucial role in shaping the district’s energy dynamics. This robust and interconnected natural system enhances the city’s climate, making it more agreeable. It also fosters soil productivity and nurtures biodiversity, which, in turn, supports agricultural growth. Moreover, this natural base is essential for the development of bio-based materials. It encourages outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and other forms of energy-efficient recreation, promoting healthier lifestyles.
Noordoevers Getijdenpark, ZUS Architects.
MATERIALS
Promoting the use of sustainable materials requires international standards and certifications. By driving the demand for recycled and responsibly sourced materials, we can decrease the energy intensive processes of material production.
TRANSPORT
On a global scale, enhancing transportation efficiency involves the development and adoption of lowemission vehicles and the creation of infrastructure that supports sustainable mobility options.
Using bio-based and recycled materials in construction can greatly reduce an urban area’s energy consumption. Cities can incentivize the use of such materials to ensure buildings are constructed with energy efficiency in mind.
Cities can improve transportation by developing compact city designs that reduce travel distances, enhancing public transit systems, and creating pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environments, thereby lowering the energy demand for transportation.
GREEN_BLUE NETWORK
On a global level, expanding the green-blue network entails protecting and connecting large-scale ecosystems.
This supports biodiversity and provides critical services, like carbon sequestration and climate regulation, contributing to a more resilient planet.
CLIMATE CONTROL
Addressing climate control globally involves investing in renewable energy sources to power heating and cooling systems, and promoting energy efficiency standards across countries.
At the local level, developing greenblue networks means creating parks, urban forests, and waterways within cities.
These spaces not only offer recreation and improve mental health but also aid in urban temperature regulation and stormwater management, leading to energy-efficient urban living.
Locally, integrating climate control into urban design can be achieved through smart building designs that utilize passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and other methods to minimize the need for artificial climate control systems.
Globally, optimizing cargo transport means streamlining routes, improving logistical efficiency, and transitioning to cleaner fuels. This reduces energy usage across the supply chain.
At the local level, urban designs can incorporate logistics hubs that minimize the energy footprint of goods distribution, using technologies like electric delivery vehicles to reduce energy consumption.
FOOD CARGO
Creating more energy-efficient food systems means reducing food waste, improving agricultural practices, and shifting towards diets that require less energy to produce.
Locally, urban environments can support community gardens, rooftop farms, and local food markets that reduce the energy required for food production, transportation, and storage, leading to more sustainable consumption patterns.
Examples of Low-tech methods and features
DIRECT REUSE STRATEGY
Repurposing of existing materials in new constructions, incl.reclaiming fixtures, structural elements, and finishes from buildings slated for demolition or renovation.
SITE-SOURCED MATERIAL UTILIZATION
Use fof materials available on the construction site itself. This minimizes transportation and taps into local resources
BIOBASED MATERIAL PREFERENCE
Integrate materials that are derived from living organisms.
LOCAL SOURCING STRATEGY
Source materials from local suppliers to reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation and to support the local economy.
GREEN_BLUE NETWORK MATERIALS
BIOSWALES
Landscape elements designed to concentrate and convey stormwater runoff while removing debris and pollution
RAIN GARDENS
Planted depressions that absorb rainwater runoff and filter pollutants
Rows of shrubs or trees used as windbreaks and to mark boundaries
Reestablishing the characteristics of a degraded wetland to filter water and provide wildlife habitat
TRANSFORMATION AND UPCYCLING
When direct reuse is not feasible, transform or upcycle materials. This approach often involves creative alterations that give new life and function to old materials.
LOW EMBODIED ENERGY AND CARBON MATERIALS
Select materials that require minimal energy to produce and have low carbon footprints.
RECYCLED CONTENT MATERIALS
This not only requires less energy to produce compared to new materials but also reduces waste going to landfills
CARBON SEQUESTERING MATERIALS
Materials that trap carbon during their production and lifespan, such as timber and certain bio-based insulations, to contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gases.
PERMEABLE PAVEMENTS
Hard surfaces that let water through to reduce runoff and recharge groundwater
Using plants indigenous to the region, which are adapted to local conditions and require less water
Collecting rainwater from roofs for reuse
TRANSPORT
BICYCLES
Water transport designed for transport by boats is fuel-efficient
TROLEYBOATS
Vessels harness the power of overhead electric lines to navigate waterways, offering a quiet and emission-free alternative to traditional motorboats
HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES
Offering a step back to simpler times, horsedrawn carriages use the strength of animals to provide a leisurely pace of travel with zero fossil fuel use
PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY PATHWAYS
Designing pedestrian-friendly pathways to encourage walking as a zero-emission mode of transportation
CLIMATE
SOLAR ENVELOPE
Buildings can be positioned to enhance light and heat gain when required, and minimize it when not, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.
Cool roofs are designed with materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs, Sloped roofs can also contribute to this effect
gardens that provide insulation and absorb rainwater.
Reestablishing the characteristics of a degraded wetland to filter water and provide wildlife habitat
Using plants that lose leaves in winter to allow sunlight when needed and shade in summer.
Rooftop
Small, wind-powered vessels for nearshore travel.
SAILING CANOES
Lightweight and versatile, canoes utilize wind power for propulsion
HUMAN-POWERED RAIL
combining fitness with efficient, lowimpact travel
SKATEBOARDING AND ROLLERBLADING TROLLEYBUSES
Promoting all kind of human-powered travel for short distances
SHIPS
Traditional boats using wind power, ecofriendly for cargo transport
These systems use gravity and pulleys to transport goods between high points. They are low-impact and can be used without electricity or fuel
Using horses for local transportation
Bicycles for transporting goods or passengers efficiently
Waterways designed for boats or ships, fuel-efficient over long distances
Simple carts pushed or pulled by hand designed to transport loads across short distances
Powered by human strength using oars, these boats are a timeless mode of transport on waterways
Trains are one of the most efficient means of transporting large quantities of cargo over land. Rail networks using less energy per ton compared to road vehicles, and they reduce road traffic congestion
Designing an urban framework with careful consideration of the sun’s trajectory and local climatic conditions
Designed to capture and store solar energy. They often use thermal mass, like water barrels or brick walls, to regulate temperature.
Historically used to grow fruit trees against a wall that captures and radiates solar heat, increasing the microclimate’s temperature to extend the growing season
Strategically planting trees and shrubs to provide shade and act as windbreaks, naturally regulating building temperature
Planting different crops sequentially to improve soil nutrients and prevent pests
Planting food crops in underused public spaces and roofs
Using typolodies which allow air to flow naturally through buildings
Creating biodiversegardens to mimic naturalecosystems for food production
Utilizing gravity to distribute water through irrigation systems, saving energy Traditional
Reestablishing the characteristics of a
2 CONTEXT
van den Eerenbeemt, Marc. “Zelfs in het aardbevingsgebied in Groningen gingen huizenprijzen bijna over de kop.” de Volkskrant. 28 February 2023.
The municipality of Groningen is the boiling heart of the housing market in a large, shrinking area in the Northern Netherlands. The municipality has a significant shortage of housing, especially due to its popularity as a student city and its central location in the Northern region.
According to real estate data company Calcasa, the capital of Groningen experience the highest rise of house prices in the country: by an average of 11.6% in 2020 and 15.5% in 2021.
By forecasts, the population of Groningen is expected to grow by around 40,000 residents by 2040. This increase in population will further exacerbate the existing housing shortage in the city, unless adequate measures are taken to increase the supply of housing, developing new housing projects, increasing density in existing neighborhoods, and promoting alternative forms of housing.
Like many other cities, Groningen was developed as concentric layers, with each layer serving the needs of its time. As the city has grown and evolved, new neighborhoods and infrastructure have been added to meet the changing needs of its residents.
I am eager to explore the possibilities for new neighborhoods of Groningen to be developed within existing boundary of the city, takng an account the issues of modern time, including the challenge of scarce resources. It will be intresting to consider low-tech approaches to urban development and to develop a scenario for a “model” district of future.
CONTEXT OF GRONINGEN
Groningen stands as a poignant example of a region deeply shaped by the extraction and consumption of energy. Energy has always been a defining factor of its landscape and livelihood. The gas field has been instrumental in powering the Dutch economy, yet it has also led to significant seismic activity, affecting buildings and infrastructure. This has prompted a complex response that includes reducing gas production.
DE GROTE VEENKOLONISATIE
The Oude Veenkoloniën have a rich history tied to the region’s peat extraction industry.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the area experienced significant growth as peat was excavated and used as fuel. The industry declined in the 19th century due to the exhaustion of peat reserves, leading to economic shifts and the transformation of the landscape.
Map of canal system built for peat digging in the nothern Netherlands
GRONINGEN GAS FIELD
The Groningen gas field was discovered in 1959 and has since become one of the largest natural gas fields in the world. The gas from the Groningen field has been a major source of energy for the Netherlands and has contributed significantly to the country’s economy. However, over the years, the gas extraction has led to earthquakes and damages to buildings and infrastructure in the region, leading to a decision to gradually reduce gas production from the Groningen field.
The map highlights the ecological and climatic risks associated with energy harvesting. The extraction of natural gas has not come without consequences. The intense drilling activity has been linked to environmental issues such as soil subsidence, salinization, and notably, earthquakes that have damaged buildings and infrastructure.
Soil subsidence occurs due to the compression of the ground as gas is removed, which can alter drainage patterns and increase flood risks. Salinization, the accumulation of salt in the soil, is exacerbated by sea-level rise and can impair agricultural productivity. Meanwhile, the induced earthquakes have been a direct result of gas extraction, leading to structural damage in the region and contributing to a growing sense of urgency for a transition to renewable energy sources.
CONTEXT OF GRONINGEN
The wry: especially in Groningen, many residents are now struggling with energy poverty.
It is bitter: precisely the province that kept the Netherlands warm with cheap gas for the past sixty years is now suffering the most from the energy crisis. In the top 20 of places and neighborhoods where most residents live in energy poverty, there are thirteen Groningen. People have lower average incomes, while many Groningen houses are very energy-inefficient.
DEMOGRAPHICS: UNIQUENESS OF GRONINGEN
Groningen has a young, highly educated population. Over 40% of Groningen residents have a higher education degree; as home to over 50 000 students, Groningen is the youngest city in the Netherlands.
THE NETHERLANDS
YOUNGSTERS (15-25 yo)
NOT MARRIED
1- PERSON HOUSEHOLDS
40% LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLDS
LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLDS
ENERGY
Average electricity usage
Average natural gas usage
Bron: CBS
+25 000 HOUSES in project area in Groningen in total 2050
+15 000 JOBS
+15 000 HOUSES
+4 000 JOBS
SITE VISITS/ANALISYS
ADHERENCE TO THE COMPACT CITY PRINCIPLE
BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT - TRANSITION FROM LOWDENSITY MONOFUNCTIONAL ZONE
ELEVATED ENSURINGFLOOD POST-2070
1htoLeeuwarden
Groningen Noord 2,5km
Groningen Central
Groningen Europark
TREES PER HA
Groenplan Groningen_vitamine G
1h to Zwolle
2h 30m to Amsterdam
GENERAL IMPRESSION
Lot`s of asphalt, concrete and hardcore architecture
The urban fabric is characterized by distinct pockets of activity, which function almost as ‘disconnected islands’ within the greater urban context, creating a fragmented and car-oriented environment.
The low density and low mixed-use index of the site suggest a single-purpose zoning approach that minimizes the intensity of land use and the variety of activities within the area.
From an urban design and energy-efficient perspective, enhancing the mixed-use index and gently increasing density could lead to a more sustainable and resilient area.
My design transformed the area into a place with four green parks and four lively neighborhoods.
In my presentation, I’ll share the story of crafting the spatial layout, the low-tech features that define it, and the distinct qualities and traits of the parks and neighborhoods.
3 STRATEGY
GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF LOW-TECH URBAN DESIGN
Allocation of Energy for Societal Activities
GREEN-BLUE NETWORK
TRANSPORT CARGO
BIOSWALES
PERMEABLE PAVEMENTS
RAIN GARDENS
NATIVE PLANT LANDSCAPING
LIVING FENCES
ROOF WATER HARVESTING
SOIL RECLAMATION
WETLAND RESTORATION
BICYCLES
TROLLEYBUSES
TROLEYBOATS
SAILING CANOES
PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY PATHWAYS
SKATEBOARDING AND ROLLERBLADING
HUMAN-POWERED RAIL
HORSE-DRAWN TRANSPORT
WATER CARGO
CARGO ROPES/ZIP LINES
CARGO BIKES/ RICKSHAWS
HORSE-DRAWN BARGES
SAILING SHIPS
RAILWAY CARGO
WHEELBARROWS
TRADITIONAL ROWBOATS
MATERIALS FOOD CLIMATE
DIRECT REUSE STRATEGY
TRANSFORMATION AND UPCYCLING
SITE-SOURCED MATERIAL UTILIZATION
LOW EMBODIED ENERGY AND CARBON MATERIALS
BIOBASED MATERIAL PREFERENCE
RECYCLED CONTENT MATERIALS
LOCAL SOURCING STRATEGY
CARBON SEQUESTERING MATERIALS
PASSIVE GREENHOUSES
FRUIT WALLS
URBAN/GUERRILLA GARDENING
GRAVITY-FED IRRIGATION
(VERMI)COMPOSTING
CROP ROTATION
FOOD FORESTS/ POLYCULTURE
PROMOTION OF LOCAL FARMS
SOLAR ENVELOPE
SOLAR GRID
COOL ROOFS/ SLOPE ROOFS
INSULATIVE LANDSCAPING
GREEN ROOFS
CROSS VENTILATION
SHADING/DECIDUOUS PLANTS
WINDCATCHERS
GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF LOW-TECH URBAN DESIGN
This map is a stractural framework for the territory’s development, guiding us in deciding what to build where.
It’s a planning tool, designed to establish priorities and illustrate how various layers of the urban fabric interact.
CLIMATE CONTROL
Direction of prevailing westerly winds
Direction of north and south winds
Row of trees dispersing wind
Pitched roof or orientation for better insolation
FOOD MATERIALS
The main axis between the station and the foodmarket
Foodmarket – the heart of the area
Material hub
CARGO
Cargo hangars
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Distribution of goods from harbors
Cargo rope
TRANSPORT
Main cycling routes
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Pedestrian access to the Stadium from the hubs
Access for cars and trucks
Densification of urban development
Industrial area with residential functions
Urban centers
Park-oriented public functions
Active workshop front
Developments with diverse typologies
Main greenhouse
Radio tower
Exclusive pedestrian and bicycle access to the island
Plots for vegetable gardens with limited development
Green buffer between canals and gardens
External green connections
This is a strategically planned network of natural and semi-natural areas, along with all the features of the environment (natural processes), designed and managed to provide a wide range of ecosystem services: water purification, air quality, recreational spaces, climate change adaptation, etc. It is a network of green and blue (water) spaces that can improve environmental conditions and, consequently, the health and quality of life of citizens. It also supports the green economy, creates jobs, and maintains biodiversity.
A ROBUST GREEN-BLUE STRUCTURE
KEY PRINCIPLES
MULTI–FUNCTIONALITY
Every element of green infrastructure is created with multiple functions in mind to enhance ecosystem services
WIND-ALIGNED
Green Corridors Aligned with Dominant Winds Directions
CONNECTIVITY
Green infrastructure is formed as a connected network of green integrated spaces
INTEGRATION
Green infrastructure is intertwined with the urban material and immaterial infrastructure
WATERFRONT FOCUS DIVERSE GREENERY
Enhanced Waterfront Design
Every element of the green network has its own character and functionality
A NEW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM: INFORMAL STRUCTURE
Informal structure
New connections and bridges serve as vital links, seamlessly integrating diverse urban neighborhoods with natural spaces and external context. This strategic framework of pathways fosters a cohesive urban environment, transforming the area into a dynamic hub where the city’s urban fabric and natural landscapes converge, encouraging interaction and accessibility. These networks not only facilitate movement but also promote environmental sustainability and social cohesion by providing inclusive, green corridors that enrich city life and connect inhabitants to their city center and beyond.
When designing new bridges, I prioritize high, non-mechanical ones for energy efficiency. Pedestrian and cyclist bridges should have a gentle slope, ideally no more than 5% grade, for accessibility and comfort. 74
KEY PRINCIPLES
BARRIER REDUCTION
Strategically dismantle infrastructural barriers to enhance connectivity and accessibility.
GREEN-BLUE NETWORK INTEGRATION
Seamlessly integrate with green and blue spaces to promote walking and biking
ROUTE DIVERSITY
Foster a diverse network of routes including recreational, fast, green, and urban paths with a clear hierarchy
A
Limiting car usage within the city plays a crucial role in low-tech sustainable city district. By restricting vehicles to essential areas and directing them towards strategically located parking hubs, we reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions, and reclaim streets for green spaces and public use.
This approach promotes cleaner air, encourages the use of public transport, cycling, and walking, and fosters a more vibrant, community-focused urban environment.
Such measures not only enhance the quality of urban life but also contribute to the broader goals of environmental conservation and carbon footprint reduction.
NEIGHBORHOOD
RAIL LINK
Provide a connection for all neighborhoods to the train station (Groningen Europark).
STRATEGIC HIGHWAY ACCESS
Establish a connection to the A7 for efficient traffic flow.
HUB-CENTRIC PARKING
Designate parking in hubs strategically located to serve all neighborhoods and logistic centers
A NEW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM: PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Public transport
To make public transport more sustainable and low-tech, it’s essential to focus on streamlined vehicle design—smaller, lighter, and optimized for energy efficiency—while powering them through direct electrification methods like overhead lines, eliminating the need for batteries.
Simultaneously, reinforcing the network with renewable energy sources and enhancing connectivity with pedestrian and bicycle routes can lead to a comprehensive, resource-efficient transport system that supports the environmental and social fabric of the city.
De Decker, Kris. "Get Wired (Again): Trolleybuses and Trolleytrucks." LOW←TECH MAGAZINE, July 10, 2009. https://solar.lowtechmagazine.com/2009/07/get-wired-again-trolleybuses-and-trolleytrucks/.
Key principles
A trolleybus (or “trackless trolley”) can be defined in two ways; as an electric bus that gets its power from overhead cables, or as a tram (or “street car”) that drives on rubber tyres. Whichever way you look at it, this combination of bus and tram is the most ecological (motorised) means of transport that exists in the world today. De Decker, Kris. “Get Wired (Again): Trolleybuses and Trolleytrucks.”
ENHANCED URBAN CONNECTIVITY
Ensure strong links between the site and city centers to foster easy access and cohesion
SEAMLESS PUBLIC TRANSPORT INTEGRATION
Embed stations and stops within the existing public transport system for a seamless transit experience
HUB AND HAVEN INTEGRATION
Stations and stops should be integrated as hubs and havens within the transport network
TRANSPORT ACCESS DENSITY
Increase the density of stations/ stops to improve transport accessibility within pedestrian proximity throughout the neighborhoods
FUTURE
In the low-tech future, our city plans call for spacious streets and sidewalks, but not for the benefit of cars. Instead, they’ll serve the swarms of cyclists and cargo bikes that will become main sort of of urban transport, allowing us to indulge in luxuriously wide walkways, a lot of room water management, and tree-lined avenues.
The leap towards renewable energy demands a reshuffle of our utility grid. The dense heart of our cities will need a heat network that’s both robust and accessible.
The current modus operandi—tucking all utilities out of sight beneath our feet—starves our streets of greenery.
Why not let some pipes rise above ground, turning our streets into a tapestry where nature and infrastructure coexist openly? By integrating pipelines into the urban vista, we could liberate the soil for water to seep through and for biodiversity to blossom.
LOW-TECH SOLUTIONS IN CARGO AND LOGISTICS
For sustainable cargo and logistics, a low-tech approach entails optimizing load sizes and streamlining delivery routes to minimize energy consumption. Employing cargo bikes, electric delivery vehicles directly powered from renewable sources, and consolidating shipping hubs can reduce fossil fuel reliance and traffic congestion.
Connect hubs to Spoorzone using gravity for goods transport.
WATERFRONT ACCESS
Prioritize boat and port access.
ROAD INTEGRATION
Maintain truck access for existing buildings
GREEN LAST-MILE
Use bikes and wheelbarrows for final delivery
Water Navigation on Strava
CARGO ROPEWAYS
LOW-TECH MATERIALS IN URBAN DESIGN
REUSED (DIRECTLY)
Existing Situation
(TRANSFORMED)
BUILDING REUTILIZATION
Buildings on the site with a high energy performance index should be directly reused t
MATERIAL TRANSFORMATION
Materials from buildings and warehouses with low energy performance should be repurposed
MATERIAL HUB CREATION
Establish a central hub for materials to streamline the sourcing, storage, and distribution of reusable construction materials
SOIL CONSERVATION
Practice soil reuse on-site to preserve the ecological balance and reduce the environmental impact of new constructions.
Source: Hammond, G., & Jones, C. (Eds.). Embodied Carbon: The Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE). BSRIA.
Recycled Timber
Bamboo
Straw Bale
Limestone
Rammed Earth
Adobe Clay
Concrete (general) Concrete (recycled)
Bricks(fired clay)
Mineral Wool
Cellulose Insulation (recycled)
Glass (recycled)
Ceramic Tiles
Steel (recycled)
Timber (softwood)
Timber (hardwood)
Cement (Portland)
Window Glass 1,00
URBAN DESIGN’S INFLUENCE ON SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEM
In the realm of urban design, our response to the challenges of food importation and refrigeration can be transformative. By bolstering local food systems through the design of accessible local markets, we can reduce the energy-intensive cycle of freezing and transportation. We advocate for short supply chains, emphasizing the importance of local produce, which inherently lessens the environmental impact.
Adopting low-tech solutions, we can look to traditional food storage methods that rely on the earth's natural insulation, such as underground cellars and passive cooling systems like California coolers. Additionally, communal refrigeration spaces linked with local shops can decrease the prevalence of private freezers and reduce energy use.
Through smart zoning and incentives for urban agriculture, we can integrate food production within urban areas, thus eliminating the need for transportation. Such urban design strategies pave the way for a self-sustaining, energy-efficient, and community-centric food system.
Key principles
LOCAL FOOD HUB
Centralize the district around a local food market for community engagement and access.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRIHOOD
Enhance soil and biodiversity for self-sustaining food cultivation experiments.
LAST-MILE MINIMARTS
Deploy a network of shared refrigerator shops for convenient, fresh food access.
SUN AND HEAT
This diagram illustrates the changing climate patterns in Groningen, projecting a future where contrasts between seasons are more pronounced. By 2070, the data suggests significantly warmer summers with an increase in tropical nights, indicating a shift towards more extreme heat events. Conversely, winters are expected to retain their chill, albeit with fewer frosty nights. This points to a climate of extremes: hotter summers and persistently cold winters, albeit with less severe cold snaps.
These projections underscore the need for adaptive design strategies to manage the heightened contrasts — ensuring that infrastructure can cope with the increased demand for cooling during intensified summer heat, while also maintaining warmth during the cold winters.
BRON: KNMI + SPONSLAND
Bron: Bijlage Groenplan
HEAT island effect GRONINGEN
Key principles
SPANISH GRID ADAPTATION
Implement a 45-degree grid for balanced heat and shade distribution.
ORIENTATION STRATEGY
Position slabs north-south to optimize sunlight and shadow management.
COMPUTATIONAL MODELING
Apply advanced models for precise climate control planning.
STRATEGICP PLANTING\
Position trees in the places where the comp. model shows heated surfaces
The New Heliomorphism and finds of Ralph Knowles
Solar access to an individual building is determined by only 4 factors: latitude (the distance north or south from the equator), slope, building shape and orientation.
Solar access to a city (or any other built-up environment) is determined by seven factors: the four just mentioned, plus the height of the buildings, the width of the streets, and the orientation of the streets
Source: Zeiger, Mimi. “How a Retired 88-Year-Old Solar Design Pioneer Became one of 2017’s ‘Game Changers’.” ArchDaily. February 02, 2017. https://www.archdaily.com/804566/ how-ralph-knowles-retired-88-year-old-solar-design-pioneer-became-2017-game-changers.
Cities laid out using the English grid have streets and blocks aligned with the cardinal directions. Because of this, buildings on the English grid have a south facing side that gets basked in sun all summer, resulting in excessive heat, and a north side that gets no sunlight all winter, resulting in excessive cold.
Cities laid out using the Spanish grid have the diagonals of the blocks aligned with the cardinal directions. Because of this, all sides of a square-footprint block get sun exposure at some point during the day, making it easier to warm up during the winter, while not having any side of the house basked in the sun for too much of the day during summer.
ENGLISH GRID
SPANISH GRID
IN MY IMAGINATION, THE IDEAL SOLARPUNK ECO-URBAN ENVIRONMENT WOULD BE A CITY BUILT WITH STRICT ADHERENCE TO THE CONCEPT OF A SOLAR SHELL LOCATED ON A SPANISH GRID, WITH UBIQUITOUS BUT THOUGHTFUL USE OF PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS ON BALCONY SPACES AND BUILDING FACADES.
RELATIVELY WIDE STREETS AND SIDEWALKS WILL BE BUILT INTO THE CITY LAYOUT NOT TO ACCOMMODATE MULTI-LANE STREETS FOR CARS (SINCE SUCH AN ECOTOPIC CITY WOULD PRIMARILY RELY ON BICYCLES AND EVEN CARGO BIKES TO TRANSPORT PEOPLE AND GOODS), BUT FOR AN ABUNDANCE AND WELL-SPACED PAVEMENT, STREETS WITH TREES .
WATER/HUMIDITY
This diagram offers a detailed look at Groningen’s humidity and precipitation patterns, highlighting a shift toward more pronounced seasonal extremes by 2070. It shows that rainfall will be distributed unevenly throughout the year, with a notable increase in drought conditions by 25% during the summer months and an excess water supply in the winter, projected to increase by 32%.
The inner circles of the diagram indicate humidity comfort levels, showing a predominance of comfortable conditions, which will be important to maintain as climate conditions change. The data underscores the challenge of managing water resources in urban design — conserving water during increasingly dry summers and managing excess during wet winters.
LOW-TECH CLIMATE REGULATION: WATERMANAGEMENT
LOCAL FLOODING DUE TO IMPERMEABLE SURFACES
A more permeable urban design can help mitigate these floods.
Key principles
GROUNDWATER RECHARGE RAINWATER UTILIZATION RETENTION AREA
Encouraging the replenishment of groundwater reserves by reducing impervious surfaces and enhancing the ground’s absorption capacity
Collecting, cleaning, and reusing rainwater for agricultural purposes, such as for orchards on sandy soil, and collecting it in green wadis
Creating buffers or retention spaces to capture excess water, allowing for its gradual release and reducing flood risk
GRAVITY-ASSISTED FLOW
Utilizing natural topography to direct water flow, reducing the need for mechanical pumping systems
STATIONS/STOPS ARE CONNECTED TO HUNBS AND TO HAVENS
STATIONS/STOPS ARE CONNECTED TO HUNBS AND TO HAVENS
DENSITY OF STATIONS/STOPS OF TRANSPORT IM PEDESTRIAN PROXIMITY TO ANY PLACE IN THE BNEIGHBOURHOODS
GREEN CORRIDORS
WIND AND FRESH AIR
This wind rose diagram illustrates the annual wind patterns in Groningen, with a dominant west/south-west airflow coming from the sea. This breeze is crucial for ecological corridors as it carries seeds and fresh air. However, it’s less favorable for pedestrian comfort within the city. Urban and landscape design strategies are needed to temper these winds, possibly through the strategic orientation of streets and buildings to act as windbreaks.
The diagram also indicates secondary wind patterns: a cool northern breeze in the summer and a warmer southern one in the winter. Urban planning should allow for the free movement of these winds to aid in natural temperature regulation.
Throughout the year, these patterns are critical for designing a city that is both ecologically connected and comfortable for its residents. With a projected decrease in wind speeds by 2050, these considerations will be an essential part of future urban design in Groningen.
RELATION TO CONTEXT
DENSITY
4 DISTRICTS
CONNECTED URBAN FABRIC
RELATION TO CONTEXT
The specific character and functionality of each zone are a direct response to its surrounding environment. The Student Haven buzzes with the vibrancy of youthful academia near the city center, while the Europapark emerges as a new hub of connectivity and civic life. The Scandinavian Havens echoes the robust industry, serving as an industrial/logistics node, and the Agrihood area reimagines a parcel of natural landscape repurposed for communal sustenance and recreation.
DENSITY
The strategic concentration of urban development gravitates towards the city center and the Europapark railway station, embodying the principles of transit-oriented development. This approach fosters ease of mobility and reduced reliance on automobiles.
The zones smoothly transition from a busy center to peaceful edges, each playing its unique part in Groningen’s overall story.
CONNECTED URBAN FABRIC
In my project, I’ve made a plan that connects different parts of Groningen. The design turns an area that was set apart into a place that brings together residential area and the city center on the North/West and factories, and nature on the South/East. Now, you can easily get from the busy downtown to the quiet outskirts, and all the parts of the city fit together like a puzzle.
4 DISTRICTS, 4 PARKS
The outcome of the framework plan is a division of the island into four unique urban neighbourhoods and four park.ach sector is characterized by a unique identity and designated role within the urban framework, yet they retain a balanced mix of functions.
ILLUSTRATIVE PLAN
5 DESIGN
polluted water runoff klei
RECYCLING PARK
The current site is occupied by the auto recycling business Maris Brothers, which specializes in car refurbishment and offers a wide range of recycled car parts, including motor oil, coolant, tires, and fuel. These activities result in the release of a complex mixture of chemicals and oil-based hydrocarbons, such as benzene. Historically, these hazardous substances were improperly disposed of, leading to soil and water contamination in the area, leaving the ground beneath laden with these toxic compounds
The proposal is to clean the soil using a method similar to one in Griftpark in Utrecht. This involves using bacteria that eat away the oil pollution when there is a little bit of oxygen around. This helps break down dangerous stuff like benzene faster than usual. To make this happen, the plan includes adding a bit of oxygen to the soil which helps these bacteria work better. This way of cleaning the soil has worked well before and it’s cheaper and better for the environment than other ways.
LOW EUROPARK
Low Europark stands as a crucial water management site in our district. Strategically situated in a low-lying area, the park is designed to act as a natural reservoir during heavy rainfall, effectively mitigating the risk of flooding. Its central location ensures that it serves the southern part of our community efficiently.
This green haven not only provides a solution to climate-induced challenges but also enriches urban life. It’s a place where nature and recreation meet, inviting residents to enjoy open, serene spaces.
LOCAL SPECIES WITH DEVELOPED ROOT SYSTEM
HIGH VOLUME FOR WATER STORAGE
WATER PAVILION
FOR STORAGE
PARK AS A CONNECTOR
LOCAL SPECIES WITH DEVELOPED ROOT SYSTEM
WOODEN BRIDGES
PARK GROENEDIJK
The current plan involves rerouting part of Groningen’s highway underground and creating a park on the surface to the west, but the eastern side remains unchanged. I suggest extending the park across the entire area, converting it into “Groendijk,” a name with historical roots as the city’s 18th-century boundary. This extended green dike would not only provide aesthetic value but also serve practical functions. It would offer a green corridor for cyclists, incorporate rainwater management with terraced cleansing, and channel purified water into adjacent natural buffers.
Betonbos
Hunze Haven
Biotop
PARK HUNZE HAVEN
Hunze Park is evolving into Green Haven, which is conveniently located not only for the new inhabitants of Low Tech Island but also as a crucial green space easily accessible on foot from the city center. It aims to increase the biodiversity along the Eemskanaal by creating gentle, natural banks. Although the canal’s water quality doesn’t permit swimming, it offers residents a pleasant view of the water and a cool retreat in the heat of summer. Additionally, Hunze Haven will adjoin a boulevard where wind protection is a key feature for commuters traveling from east to west.
STUDENT
STUDENT HAVEN
Direction of prevailing westerly winds
Direction of north and south winds
Dispersion of the westerly winds by buildings
Row trees dispersing wind
Infiltration of excess water into green public spaces
Energy recovery pool
Pitched roof for better insolation
Cargo rope
Cargo hangars and hubs
CALIFORNIA COOLERS
SLOPE ROOFS LOCATED STRATEGICALLY TO CATCH MORE AND LET MORE LIGHT TO THE PUBLIC SPACE
WADI/ RAINWATER STORAGE
EASTERN/WESTERN FACADES WITH BIG WINDOWS
SOUTHERN FACADE WITH SUNKEN TERRACES
LOCAL SPECIES WITH
NICOLSON PAVEMENT
MATERIAL HAVEN
STUDENT HAVEN
Direction of prevailing westerly winds
Direction of north and south winds
Dispersion of the westerly winds by buildings
Row trees dispersing wind
Infiltration of excess water into green public spaces
Energy recovery pool
Pitched roof for better insolation
Cargo rope
Cargo hangars and hubs
FOOD MARKET
The main axis between the station and the foodmarket
Foodmarket – the heart of the area
Cargo hangars
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Distribution of goods from harbors
Industrial area with residential functions
Cargo rope
Main cycling routes
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Densification of urban development
Pedestrian access to the Stadium from the hubs
MATERIAL HAVEN
Housing and workshops
New residential development
Cargo hangars
Industrial area with residential functions
Park-oriented public functions
Material hub
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Cargo rope
Main cycling routes and distribution of goods
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Active workshop front
Developments with diverse typologies
REUSED MATERIALS ARCHITECTURE
FURNITURE (REUSED)
CHINEESE PASSIVE GLASSHOUSE
ROPEWAY
FUNKY KINDERGARDEN
PATH FOR BIKES AND WHEELBARROWS WADI
PLAYGROUND?COMMON ELEMENTS
Direction of prevailing westerly winds
Direction of north and south winds
AGRIHOOD
Dispersion of the westerly winds by buildings
Row trees dispersing wind
Infiltration of excess water into green public spaces
Energy recovery pool
Pitched roof for better insolation
Cargo rope
Cargo hangars and hubs
FOOD MARKET
The main axis between the station and the foodmarket
Foodmarket – the heart of the area
Cargo hangars
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Distribution of goods from harbors
Industrial area with residential functions
Cargo rope
Main cycling routes
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Densification of urban development
Pedestrian access to the Stadium from the hubs
MATERIAL HAVEN
Housing and workshops
New residential development
Cargo hangars
Industrial area with residential functions
Park-oriented public functions
Material hub
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Cargo rope
Main cycling routes and distribution of goods
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Active workshop front
Developments with diverse typologies
AGRIHOOD
Main greenhouse
Radio tower
Exclusive pedestrian and bicycle access to the island
Plots for vegetable gardens with limited development
Green buffer between canals and gardens
External green connections
Access for cars and trucks
TOPOGRAPHY FROM ELEVATED SOIL
COMMUNITY (WARE) HOUSE
CHINEESE PASSIVE GLASSHOUSE
FRUIT WALL
SHARED HORSE
PATH FOR BIKES AND WHEELBARROWS
FOOD HAVEN / CENTRAL HAVEN
STUDENT HAVEN
Direction of prevailing westerly winds
Direction of north and south winds
Dispersion of the westerly winds by buildings
Row trees dispersing wind
Infiltration of excess water into green public spaces
Energy recovery pool
Pitched roof for better insolation
Cargo rope
Cargo hangars and hubs
FOOD MARKET
The main axis between the station and the foodmarket
Foodmarket – the heart of the area
Cargo hangars
Fairway of the shipping canal
Cargo hangar access for ferries
Distribution of goods from harbors
Industrial area with residential functions
Cargo rope
Main cycling routes
Access for cars and trucks
Auto hubs
Densification of urban development
Pedestrian access to the Stadium from the hubs
INDUSTRY+LIVE TYPOLOGIES
GREEN EMBANKMENT
LOCAL MILL
STOKER+ BRANDER
CARGO ROPEWAY
STATION AREA ON THE BACKGROUND
BUSY STREET (CONNECTOR)
PROMENADE+ OPEN CAFE
AREA
MOORING PLACE
MARKET AKA MARKTHAL
REFERENCES
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Barber, Daniel A. Modern Architecture and Climate: Design before Air Conditioning. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2020. Accessed September 28, 2024. https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691170039/modern-architecture-andclimate.
De Decker, Kris. “Get Wired (Again): Trolleybuses and Trolleytrucks.” LOW-TECH MAGAZINE, July 10, 2009. https://solar.lowtechmagazine.com/2009/07/get-wired-again-trolleybuses-andtrolleytrucks/
De Decker, Kris. “Medieval Smokestacks: Fossil Fuels in Pre-industrial Times.” LOWTECH MAGAZINE. September 29, 2011. https://solar.lowtechmagazine. com/2011/09/medieval-smokestacks-fossil-fuels-in-pre-industrial-times/)
de Jong, Jolanda, and Sven Stremke. “Evolution of Energy Landscapes: A Regional Case Study in the Western Netherlands.” Sustainability (2020): 1-28.
van den Berg, Jurre, and Tjerk Gualthérie van Weezel. “Juist boven op het Groninger gas slaat de energiearmoede toe: de vrieskou komt binnen via de scheuren in de muur.” de Volkskrant, December 16, 2022. https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/juist-boven-op-hetgroninger-gas-slaat-de-energiearmoede-toe-de-vrieskou-komt-binnen-via-de-scheuren-in-demuur~b401faf5/.
van den Eerenbeemt, Marc. “Zelfs in het aardbevingsgebied in Groningen gingen huizenprijzen bijna over de kop.” De Volkskrant, February 28, 2023.
Hammond, G., & Jones, C. (Eds.). Embodied Carbon: The Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE). BSRIA.
IEA. World Energy Outlook 2022, Executive Summary, at 26.
Low-tech Magazine. 2019. “Wooden Wind Turbines.” Published June 25. Accessed October 22, 2023. https://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2019/06/wooden-windturbines.html
MIT Energy Initiative. “Managing large-scale penetration of intermittent renewables.” (2012).
Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency. “Ruimtelijke Verkenning Energie en Klimaat.” January 2018.
Netherlands. Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat. Nationaal Plan Energiesysteem. The Hague: Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat, 2023.
Omgevingsvisie ‘The Next City’: de Groningse leefkwaliteit voorop. www.gemeente. groningen.nl/omgevingsvisie July 2018.
Sijmons, Dirk, Jasper Hugtenburg, Anton van Hoorn, and Fred Feddes. Landscape and Energy: Designing Transition. Nai010 Publishers, 2014.
Smil, Vaclav. “Energy in Nature and Society: General Energetics of Complex Systems.” The MIT Press, 2008.
Zeiger, Mimi. “How a Retired 88-Year-Old Solar Design Pioneer Became one of 2017’s ‘Game Changers’.” ArchDaily, February 02, 2017. https://www.archdaily. com/804566/how-ralph-knowles-retired-88-year-old-solar-design-pioneer-became2017-game-changers
I extend my deepest gratitude to a circle of exceptional individuals for support and inspiration.
Andrey Zhbanov, my partner-in-crime—without your belief in me and all the support, none of this would have been possible.
Daria Chetvernya and Andrey Ozornin, thank you for your friendship and for making every step of this process fun, including our boat gluing sessions.
Markus Appenzeller and Janna Bystrych, for crafting a remarkable study program.
Jerryt Krombeen, you have been an incredible mentor. And I espesually helpful for your guidance in time planning and working structure.
Jandirk Hoekstra (In Memoriam)—who will remain an everlasting inspiration to me. His passion and vision deeply touched my heart, and I am profoundly sorry that he is no longer with us.
To my friends and colleagues from MLA+ and Karres en Brands —our conversations have been nothing short of inspirational. The years spent learning and growing with you have been truly enriching.
Yana Golubeva and Victor Korotych, for the best possible pre-master education in urban design.
Lujia Zhu, thank you for the enlightening discussions; you’ve been an exceptional friend and a study buddy.
Roelof Koudenburg, your work ethic and sharp focus continue to inspire me as a professional role model.
Oswin Noordergraaf and Alexandr van Delft, our walks and talks in Anna’s Hoeve have been refreshing pauses that brought clarity and perspective to my thoughts.
Heartfelt thanks to the academy staff and teachers for their unwavering support and expert guidance.
