Semester 2 2016 Master Thesis studio completed under the guidance of Andy Fergus and Katherine Sundermann
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Water Marks An exploration of infrastructure, urban design, architecture and the Dutch approach to water management
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4
1.
Thesis Outline 1.1 Agenda 1.2 Agenda Formation 1.3 ‘Making Polder Cities’ 1.4 ‘The Spontaneous City’
2. Vlaardingen
3.
4.
5.
6.
5
2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5
Site Location Flood Zone Site Images Vlaardingen Unaltered Return Brief
7 8 10 14 16
18 20 22 26 28 34
Investigation 3.1 Metropolitan 3.2 Neighbourhood 3.3 Case Studies 3.4 Swim not Sink
37 38 42 46 50
Netherlands Trip 4.1 Changing Levels
55 58
Development 5.1 Revised Agenda 5.2 Changing levels 2.0 5.3 Division 5.4 Design Development
75 78 80 98 100
Final Iteration 6.1 Flood Lines 6.2 Implications 6.3 Conclusion
103 104 124 127
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THESIS OUTLINE Key ideas shaping the approach to this studio project
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Water Marks
Chapter 1
part 1.1
Agenda Ambition for South Holland transformation Dutch administration uses rigidity, control and
‘top-down’ prescription to manage urban environ-
ments in its flood-zones. Dikes and water-locks are
typically used as divisive tools to separate industry and living areas in the interest of public safety and
water management. This pragmatic approach re-
sults in uniformity of water edges that ignores the individuality and character of place, and connection to the changing water systems.
There are current models of approach that revolve around adaptation. This should be further encour-
aged. Individual communities and areas are given the tools to deal with the water edge and it’s con-
dition in a way that works for them, that draws on
the strengths of the place and fullfils the needs and desires. This creates new opportunities for living and industry experimentation that is unique and different from the standard Dutch approach.
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Thesis Outline
Agenda
Rotterdam
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Water Marks
Chapter 1
part 1.1
Agenda Formation Initial Statement Week 1
Updated Statement 2 - Swim not Sink
In the constant struggle to create more and
• the Dutch approach of massive infrastruc-
lost. Cities and urban environments have be-
delicate nature of living environments
consume more, the human scale has been
ture do not appreciate the nuances and
come manifestations of capital and spectacles,
• How can we balance the awe with the
far removed from human and social environ-
thought-out? Blurring infrastructure and
ments.
the small-scale.
I am passionate about design that works to
Updated Statement 3 - Changing Levels
constantly excite, intrigue, familiarize and
draw together the complexities of an environ-
• restructuring from ‘top down’ to ‘bottom
itive, and architecture has to be site specific.
• through individual response to site and
ment. Environments should never feel repet-
up’ development of defunct harbour sites
A multitude of ground floors and a playful ar-
context a more appealing urban environ-
rangement of elements are necessary to draw
ment can be created
in the wanderer. I propose a bridging between
• water levels and the threat of flood plays a
infrastructure and the human scale, in both a
much larger role in the design of space and
metaphorical and a physical sense.
architecture
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Thesis Outline
Agenda Formation
the human scale
photo: The Guardian
organic
Artist: Imperial Boy
infrastructure as art
Project: Christo Vladimirov Javachef
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Making land; extending Rotterdam’s port area 12
Appeal of the BIG 13
Water Marks
Chapter 1
part 1.3
‘Making Polder Cities’ The Tradition of Making Polder Cities: A Fine Dutch Tradition by Fransje Hooimeijer gives insight into the historical relationship between man
and the environment. Dutch cities have been phys-
ically shaped by the water infrastructure, trade routes and the ground type itself. The rich soil was
perfect for agriculture, however no person on their
own could conquer the marshland. The need for collective action to overpower water have been at
the core of settlements in the Netherlands. Today, 26% of the Netherlands, and 21% of its population
is below sea level. Hydrolic engineering created opportunities for agriculture which in turn attracted trade, art and a community.
PRACTICAL + ORGANIC = POLDER CITY
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Thesis Outline
‘Making Polder Cities’
Water Management History (F. Hooimeijer)
1
Natural Water State Until around the year 1000 Nature over culture, coast development, young dunes, thick peat layers, free rivers and wild grounds
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Defensive Water State Year 1000 - 1500 Exploitation of the territory leads to means of protection, land loss, subsidence, sea and river dikes, mounds, dams, ditches, waterways, sluices
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Offensive Water State Year 1500 - 1800 Offensive diking, reclamations, windmills for pumping, large-scale land exploitation
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Manipulative Water State year 1800 - present Intervention in systems; new river beds, definition of rivers, damming of larger waters, artificial water levels, loss of old structures
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Adaptive Water State year present - ? layered approach, occupation on networks on subsoils, responding to water systems, incorporating them
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Water Marks
Chapter 1
part 1.4
‘The Spontaneous City’ The publication ‘The Spontaneous City’ by Urhahn
Urban Design in 2010 is a manifesto that argues for a new model of urban development. It raises questions about owenership; who owns the city?
In the proposed model producers work closely
with the residents and businesses to mitigate the inbetween process.
The city is designed and created by the users, in
a never-ending process of evolution and various changes to suit new ideas and people. A restruc-
turing of the typical players is needed to allow for
the vibrance of self-design to occur. Governments and administrations must step back and play a dif-
ferent role; one of initiatives, capital investors and marketing.
‘The Spontaneous City’ reflects on the natural pro-
gression of communities to take ownership of their spaces and builds upon this on a metropolitan scale . Something that the Netherlands lacks.
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Thesis Outline
‘The Spontaneous City’
Zoom in - reducing scale and embracing the individuality of each place. Find small-scale problems to fix and work with
Supervise open developments - an urban plan requires many participants for a vibrant actuality. Architects must mediate rather than dominate the urban realm
Create collective values - what can we share? How can we improve efficiency yet maintain livable areas?
Be user-oriented - the structure for participation and incorporation must be bigger than the goal itself to generate the ideas
Diagrams: Urhahn Urban Design
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2
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VLAARDINGEN
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
part 2.1
Site Location The focus site of this thesis project is the Oostbuurt (East Side) harbour in Vlaardingen
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Rotterdam Vlaardingen
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
part 2.2
Flood Zone Along the Nieuwe Maas (New Maas) riverfront,
of The Netherlands from the threat of flood. Built
the dike, Vlaardingen’s harbour is at the mercy
the Maeslantkering reflects the Dutch approach
water levels are constantly changing. Outside of
to withstand a 1:10 000 year flood of 5.00 metres,
of the water. There are annual average floodings
to water. Due to this automated piece of flood
of 1.00m in the site area due to a combination of
defense, the typical 1: 1000 year flood for the
high tide, storm surge and rainfall. The Maeslant-
rest of the river system is limited to 3.5 metres.
kering is a massive piece of Dutch infrastructure
These two flood levels (1.00m and the 3.50m) are
that guards the Nieuwe Maas water system. Part
explored further throughout the thesis project
of the delta-works, they collectively protect much
development.
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The Maeslantkering guarding the Nieuwe Maas from the threat of flood
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The ‘Waternoodramp’ of 1953 saw the dikes fail and inundate large areas
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More than 1 800 people lost their lives in The Netherlands
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
part 2.3
Site Images
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Vlaardingen
Site Images
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
part 2.4
Vlaardingen Unaltered 2030 Vlaardingen’s Oostbuurt harbour is a remnant
Central Rotterdam suburbs have since been
ble. The trading ships, arks and ocean bearing
looked outwards towards spaces like Vlaardin-
of its former glory, in 2016 that was still visi-
filled; developers and administrations have
ships of old had been forced to retire by the
gen’s harbour. Images of ‘seductive water-side
steel and diesel monsters that resided across
apartments and public promenades full of an
the Nieuwe Maas, in Rotterdam’s ever expand-
eccentric mix of people’ filled their minds as
ing port system. The enclaves of port business-
euro-signs sprang up in their eyes. The exist-
es had wittered away, unable to justify their
ing were buildings destroyed, and a generic
existence with nothing to latch on and feed off.
masterplan was slapped on with token pub-
The space was quiet, with the occasional truck
lic space, a grand marina and undercooked
or boat passing through, seemingly lost, or the
dwelling designs. No relation to the area’s his-
fisherman sat on a bench with his line in the
tory. Within a year construction had started,
water, waiting. Beyond the flood-zone, across
marking the change that would sweep across
the dike lied the rest of the town, picturesque
the Northern banks of the river; a flood of a
and sleepy. The majority of the people, like to
different variety.
boats, were retired whilst others had to commute considerable distances to their work.
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Vlaardingen
Vlaardingen Unaltered
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
The public promenades that line the water
port and the water activity. Shadows are cast
destrians, and vehicles. Car parking along the
environmental qualities of the area. They are
edges are deep; to allow room for bikes, pe-
on the rest of the site greatly diminishing the
edge was important to developers as Vlaardin-
themselves an eyesore, hastily constructed out
gen’s harbour had to become an attraction for
of cheap bricks and steel with some attention
the greater region, those who could afford to
to detail. Smaller apartment blocks with no
drive to the water would also have the mon-
attention to detail are positioned behind the
ey to sustain the food and beverage providers.
water-edge apartments and share a similar
Furthermore the reliance on ‘house+2carpark
aesthetic and material palette, to please the
package’ led to the proliferation of basement
Dutch notion ‘that everyone’s house should
and plinth car parking structures scattered
look the same’. The threat of flood has forced
throughout the area. Restaurants and cafes
residents to sign a waver clearing developers
were not only forced back, completely dis-
of any potential liability. Changing water levels
jointed from the water, they also had to com-
are ignored and have not shaped the way the
pete with cars and their monuments.
urban environment plays out. The ‘water-side’
Tall apartment blocks line the Southern water
living has become exactly that - ‘water on the
edge, for the prime views of the river and the
side’.
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Vlaardingen
Vlaardingen Unaltered
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
Whilst the urban plan intended to contain
young families and students pondering their
through various dwelling costs, this was not
gen’s harbour is skewed heavily in favour of
a mix of social classes and demographics
next move. They demographic of Vlaardin-
the case. Vlaardingen’s location relative to the
the older generation and has been for a long
water, the potential views of the port, and it’s
time. The social mix described by the cheesy
relation to the greater Rotterdam region have
advertisement boards are unachievable with-
led it to be largely occupied by the retired
out giving the site time to grow and manifest.
working and middle class and those from
What we have instead are the odd recreational
wealth. Social housing has remained being
fishing group standing on a lone pier, hastily
regarded as unprofitable and whilst a token
applied to the site after a community meeting.
amount of dwellings are dedicated to the low
We have the boat enthusiasts that watch from
income, these do little to balance the overall
their 4th storey balcony. We have the handful
population of the area.
of regulars at the one corner pub that is still
It was almost inevitable – the notion of wa-
open. We have the afternoon strollers seated
ter-side living is sought after by those who
on a public bench. We have a water edge that
can afford it. New housing developments are
was rushed. We do not have a vibrant street
quickly scooped up by investors leaving the
and water life.
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Vlaardingen
Vlaardingen Unaltered
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Water Marks
Chapter 2
part 2.5
Return Brief Vlaardingen’s old harbour no longer functions as
Plots of land will not be predetermined to avoid a
oppurtunity for new housing and urban environ-
see what space is available and opt in on a first
a place of trade and port activity, but contains the
rigid top-down master-plan. Instead, buyers can
ments. Through the introduction of fabrication and
come first served basis to suit their needs.
creative spaces through the retrofitting of existing
Through a build-up of client designed dwellings,
buidlings, a new drive will fill the area that gains
with encouraged mix use throughout Vlaardingen
attraction and thus residents.
and on the plots themselves, an interesting urban
It is important to establish the fact that all of the
fabric is created that deals with the water levels in
following elements cannot immidiately be success-
its own manner. The mix of work and residential
ful on site. Vlaardingen must establish a need for
will ensure a constant eyes-on-the-streets surveil-
the area for a successful progession of phases.
lance system and a general buzz of people.
Program
Client
•
studio, lab, fabrication space ~40%
Creative industries, universities, schools
•
housing and apartments ~40%
Baugruppen, individual buyers, joint ventures
•
public buildings and space ~20%
Vlaardingen government
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Vlaardingen
Return Brief
existing Vlaardingen Harbour condition
0
35
50
150 m
3
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INVESTIGATION Metropolitan, neighbourhood and building analysis was done throughout the beginning weeks of the semester to gain insight into the similarities and differences between South Holland and Melbourne.
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
part 3.1
Metropolitan Rotterdam Europort The port of Rotterdam is slowly focusing its atten-
has led to the construction of Maasvlakte Twee, a
away from the City itself. The port is the cargo gate-
the mega-ships can dock and unload with ease.
tion more towards the Nieuwe Maas, and shifting
completely manmade port right in the sea where
way for Europe and to provide enough infrastruc-
The voids created by this shift leave interesting op-
ture new and bigger spaces are constantly need-
portunities for architectural exploration due to the
ed. Bigger ships can no longer dock at the smaller
increased need for housing and existing density in-
historic harbours such as those in Vlaardingen.
tensification. Vlaardingen is nestled in the middle
The Dutch approach of control and ‘making’ land
of this system.
Maasvlakte 2 (under construction)
Vlaardingen
The Rotterdam port is moving away from the city itself, towards the sea (not to scale)
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Investigation
Metropolitan
From the old..
.. to the new
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
Delta Works The Delta Works are a number of infrastructure
work in unison to protect the river deltas. There is
lands from water. The majority of West Holland is
dikes within the old city areas to one of the biggest
and construction projects that protect the Nether-
a hierachy of defenses created, ranging from small
below sea level, yet has exceptional soil quality. A
moving structures in the world - the Maeslantker-
constant struggle has existed of the course of his-
ing ( a pair of 230m long steel truss gates). The
tory to maintain control over water. In the last 50
Delta Works authority have set up a framework
years a series of dams, sluices, dikes, levees and
of controlling water through infrastructure in a
storm surge barriers have been constructed that
methodological manner.
Rotterdam Vlaardingen
An overview of the Delta Works in the river deltas of South Holland and Zeeland (not to scale)
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Investigation
Metropolitan
Storm surge barrier Hollandse IJssel
Veersegat Dam
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
part 3.2
Neighbourhood Fitzroy’s ecletic mix of building typologies, addi-
ing typologies. The perimeter block, typical in The
tive neighbourhood. Various small pocket parks
ownership and surveillance of the street. Public
tions and alterations create a vibrant and attrac-
Netherlands, works well to create thresholds of
and concentrations of cafes and shops make for a
streets, semi private ground floor shops and dwell-
liveable area, with small catchment areas for public
ings, and private but shared internal gardens. The
transport and high walkability. There is a clear link
subdivision of plots is almost hidden in the build-
between the plot and the estimated number of res-
ing skins, creating varying densities and target de-
idents. Fitzroy, a post industrial residential inner
mographics throughout the streets.
city suburb still has clear remnants from the past.
The standard building typologies are shown on the
Shophouses, warehouses and workers housing are
following pages. The typologies themselves are re-
in a hierarchy in relation to the main streets.
latable, but both neighbourhoods have developed
Oude Noorden is more consistent with its build-
them differently over the course of history.
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Investigation
Neighbourhood
Fitzroy
Oude Noorden
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
Fitzroy
Warehouse Conversion
Ground floor plan Walk-up Apartment
Typical plan
Row-house
Upper floor plan
Ground floor plan
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Investigation
Neighbourhood
Oude Noorden
Typical lower plan
Maisonette Variant
Typical upper plan Walk-up Apartment
Typical lower plan
Typical upper plan
Row-house
Ground floor plan
First floor plan
Second floor plan
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
part 3.3
Case Studies Project Name: Kraanspoor (Craneway) Architects:
OTH Architecten
Location: Amsterdam Completed: Typology:
2007
Office
The project uses an existing remnant of the ship-
once thriving shipyard. It is a 21st century update
a modern office block. The glass box is positioned
centuated length gives it a behemoth quality, how-
builder’s yard as a core piece of infrastructure for
to an historical area. I personally feel that the ac-
lightly above the crane-way and follows the length,
ever it appears to float over the foundations which
creating a long and thin building above the river.
is an exciting tension. The idea of a ‘horizontal sky-
The project uses a mix of existing relics (structure,
scraper’ is quiet interesting, especially when it is
staircases, materials) and new materials, to create
positioned over water and next to a wharf.
a building that brings back daytime activity to a
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Investigation
Case Studies
- Combination of old and new - Accentuate the length of the building and the views of the river IJ - Utilize the maximum allowable load of the existing craneway
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
Project Name: Schouwburgplein Architects:
West 8
Location: Rotterdam Completed: Typology:
1996
Plaza
The Schouwburgplein raises itself a step above
This creates very thin edges and breaks up the
thresholds and to become a theatre space in itself.
theatres, cinemas, restaurants, cafes and the con-
the surrounding streetscape in order to define its
larger open space. The plaza’s context consists of
Custom built furniture and operable crane-like
cert hall. These programs need a void space to bal-
lighting make for an interactive environment that
ance them, and the Plaza does this well through its
becomes an active outside space. A variety of mate-
gestures to the film and theatre and to the wider
rials were used to indicate the different zones and
city as a whole, without becoming overbearing or
their relationship to the sun and shade.
cliche.
- importance of void space in the city - reflection of the Port of Rotterdam - become part of the theatre itself
48
Investigation
Case Studies
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Water Marks
Chapter 3
part 3.4
Swim not Sink Architecture has indulged too much in the ‘Spectacle’. Our constant need for bigger, better and more
has caused a disjoint between our design and our environment. Our designs are objects in space rather than a complex and intensive relationship.
The Dutch approach to water engineering is one
of aggressive and massive pieces of infrastructure that create hard and impermeable boundaries.
These do not appreciate the nuances and delicate-
ness of human life and the water environments. The human scale must be brought back to balance
this way of survival. There is an opportunity here to carefully balance the massive and the nuanced.
Awe inspiring hydro and structural engineering balanced with inviting and interesting opportunities for living and being. To create designs that
controls our environment but not dominate it. The Dutch landscape is fluid, and our approach to control should reflect this.
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Investigation
Swim not Sink
Key words: infrastructure, mix, human scale, balance, water Books: Living on Water: Mooring Site Amsterdam Maarten Kloos & Yvonne de Korte (eds.) - Tracks the development of Dutch boathouses as a typology S, M, L, XL by Rem Koolhaas
- Relationship of scales
- Mixing city elements for new living opportunities
Archigram: Architecture Without Architecture by Simon Sadler
Projects: “Holland Creates Space” MVRDV’s pavilion at the 2000 World Expo
- ‘The Dutch Approach’ of controlling and creating environments
- Massive and ephemeral piece of water management and engineering
- Mix of infrastructure and human scale
“G-Cans” Tokyo’s Massive Underground Storm Drain
“A Slow Moving Bridge” AC-CA Amsterdam Bridge competition entry by Velorose + Heyne Tillett Steel
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Tokyo’s underground stormwater collection chambers
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MVRDV’s Dutch Pavilion at the 2000 World Expo in Hanover
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4
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NETHERLANDS TRIP two weeks of workshops, site visits and presentations gave insight in to the dutch approach. mid semester presentation was held at the offices of delta metropool and de zwarte hond.
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Water Marks
Chapter x
56
Part Title
chapter title
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Water Marks
Chapter 4
part 4.1
Changing Levels Vlaardingen: Metropolitan Connection Vlaardingen is part of a broader metropolitan re-
Changing Levels proposes that the first step to facil-
As outlined earlier, the port is transitioning out-
ate an interesting and unique environment. This
gion that lies outside of the dikes and water gates.
itate growth is for new water infrastructure to cre-
wards, leaving a variety of old ports with no rel-
can become a new model for the northern shores
evance. There is opportunity for increased popu-
of the river, when demand for new commercial and
lation density through new housing. Due to the
residential space is sufficient. Ultimately, a new
complete lack of program in these void areas, the
trainline might be built due to the number of peo-
process to create attractive and vibrant urban plac-
ple moving through this new riverside area.
es is a long one, and must be carefully assessed to avoid failure.
First, these areas must be attractive to potential
commercial businesses, so that an interest is cultivated. Only when there is a ‘need’ to go there will dwellings and inhabitants follow.
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
2016 VLAARDINGEN: BROADER CONTEXT:
2030
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
START-UPS
ATTRACTION OF COMMERCIAL
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ATTRACTION OF RESIDENTS
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NEW N.S. INTENSIVE RIVERSIDE
Water Marks
Chapter 4
Vlaardingen: Site Overview The site is seperated from the town of Vlaardingen due to the various infrastructure pieces. The trainline is situated on the dike, leaving a visible gap that limits pedestrian access.
Due to the sites location outside of the dike, it is at
the mercy of the water levels. A 1 in a 1000 year flood of 3.5m would cover the entire site. Similarly,
a typical <1m flood regurarly floods large areas of the harbour areas.
Two strips of old warehouses, factories and offices line two sides of the harbour. This historic pieces give insight into the character of the once bustling
port area, and provide interesting anchor points for re-use and renovation.
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
Current Infrastructure - train-line (red) road (yellow) and boat (blue)
3.5m flood inundates the entire site
Building construction year (blue denotes new buildings 1960+, orange and red denotes older buildings (1850-1950)
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Chapter 4
Precedent: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Innovation Ecosystemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Tyrrell Studio The competition winning entry by Tyrrell Studio looks at the river edge conditions in Parramatta and how architecture and urban design can be
blurred with the water and ecosystems. Through the design, the thresholds between public, private,
river and design start and stop. It brings nature and commerce together through blurred thresholds, and contains many different elements of ur-
ban areas such as housing, aged-care and other programs. The close care taken in the response to
the site creates a design that is fun and interesting.
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
63
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Chapter 4
Top Down Restructuring Typically, the Dutch governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and authoritiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; approach to redevelopment and reprogramming of defunct areas involves heavy masterplanning. Effi-
ciency and lowest common denominator strategies are succesful in their easy implementation and effectiveness, but do not create interesting or active water-side areas. The redevelopment of existing
industrial areas cannot be achieved quickly. The typical projects have very little relation to the site, and allow for very little flexibility and occupant input into the design process. This leads to monot-
ony and boring public space that quickly loses its superficial appeal.
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
EXISTING HARBOUR
DEFENSIVE STRATEGY
GOVERNMENT LED APPROACH
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Chapter 4
EXISTING HARBOUR
+
New Approach The existing harbour can be revitalised through
government led infrastructure redevelopment. Embracing and incorporating water levels can be
the catalyst for new businesses that focus on fabri-
GOVERNMENT LED INFRASTRUCTURE REDEVELOPMENT
cation and experimentation to move into the area
and fill the existing buildings. Afterwards when the
+
need for the area is established, bottom up housing projects can take place to increase the density and sustain the immediate area.
RETROFIT FOR EMERGING BUSINESS
+
BOTTOM UP HOUSING
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
Harbour Transition Outlined below is a break-down of the transition
phasing, the roles and key players. The ultimate goal is the create an active Vlaardingen, multi-use
and intergrated with the delta area and the surrounding towns and cities. The population of the
area will shift from mainly elderly, to a greater mix of ages.
2016 STEP:
2030 WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN THE VARIOUS LEVELS
RETROFIT EXISTING WAREHOUSES
BY WHO:
FERRY SERVICES
GOVERNMENT
Dep. of TRAN
FACILITATE NEW LIVING
AGE
%
45 +
41%
25 - 45
31%
0 - 25
29%
LOW INCOME
33%
Dep. of TRAN HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES
LIVING IN COMBINATION WITH WATER
LONG TERM RENT & SITE ACTIVATION
DEMOGRAPHIC: (VLAARDINGEN OOSTBUURT)
SERVICE DEVELOPMENT
BOTTOM UP GROUPS
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPERS
PURPOSE:
NEW N.S.
CONNECT
CONNECT INTENSITY
- YOUNG COUPLES AND FAMILIES - RETIRED WORKER - RETIRED MIDDLE CLASS
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Chapter 4
Water Incorporation: Daily The government led re-thinking of the area should take full advantage of the daily tides that flow along
the river. Public space can be programmed to work around the water levels to create a variety of scenes throughout the day.
LOW TIDE
HIGH TIDE
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
Water Incorporation: Seasonal Taking advantage of the water can be further explored throughout the seasons. Retractable walls
can be withdrawn, flooding and protecting certain areas for events or ice-rinks.
SUMMER
WINTER
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Chapter 4
Worst Case Flood Scenario The 3.5m flood should be used as a datum point. Everything above is kept safe, everything below
should be water resistant. A variety of architec-
ture and earth-work solutions can be undertaken on various parts of the site. The government led infrastructure redevelopment can plan this out to create new opportunities for inhabiting.
WORST CASE FLOOD SCENARIO
~3.5M
FLOOD RESISTENT RETROFIT
RAISED FLOOR
RAISED GROUND
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FLOATING ELEMENTS
Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
EXISTING
PROPOSED - LOW TIDE
PROPOSED - HIGH TIDE
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Chapter 4
Site Focuses
2.
4.
3. 1.
5.
6. 7.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
REASSESS HIERARCHY PEDESTRIAN CONNECTION RETROFIT OLD HARBOUR AVOID DEAD WATER NEW WATER LAYERS WATER SHAPED EDGE ASSESS BUILDINGS
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Netherlands Trip
Changing Levels
73
5
74
DEVELOPMENT Following our time in the Netherlands we delved into our architectural proposal, spending time looking at the metropolitan, neighbour and experiential implications of the ideas generated over the semester.
75
Whilst the Dutch approach to flood safety and water management is one of engineering impressive and massive infrastructure pieces,
the living environments should not follow the same path. 76
It should be of individualistic responses to the water,
that work together to create a community where life can go on even with the inevitable flood
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Water Marks
Chapter 5
part 5.1
Revised Agenda Case study: Vlaardingen Vlaardingenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harbour is defunct and under-uti-
of this biennale should be flood zone urban habi-
water. Vlaardingen only has the opportunity and
of changing water levels. New technologies and
tats and the architectural and urban implications
lized, and its dwellings have no relation with the
experimental ideas should be at play within the
space to generate new thinking of water edge ur-
site to show the immediate changes that can be ad-
ban environments. I promote an individualistic re-
opted and explored in defunct port areas and wa-
sponse to changing water levels and the threat of
terside living in general. The waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impact on the
flood, in both housing typologies as well as the ex-
Dutch landscape is constant and we must push to
isting buildings. The South Holland administration
explore new ways of incorporating it in the urban
should assist financially in the 2018 International
environment.
Architectural Biennale of Rotterdam. The key focus
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Revised Agenda
2016
2018
?
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Chapter 5
part 5.2
Changing Levels 2.0 Context:
Rotterdam’s Lloydkwartier
A push for adaptive responses to the water systems
As shown on the right, the Lloydkwartier is a cur-
Problem:
generic middle to upper income apartment blocks,
around the Netherlands.
rent example of floodzone development that uses
Defunct flood zone areas are repurposed with ge-
unprogrammed open space and carparking that
neric and heavily structured masterplans that do
have no interaction with the water systems. The
not incorporate water and its implactions.
water is unused and it is these types of develop-
Agenda:
ments that must be avoided. Developers hoped
‘Bottom up’ and intervention experimentation that
that, in a single brushstroke,
work together to create urban environments that deal with the changing water levels and threat of
flood. The governments’ role is to stand back and let the area lead the development.
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Identifying the problem: Unresponsive developments that are dead in the water
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Chapter 5
Water Levels The annual flood and the 1 in a 1000 year flood water marks should be used as benchmarks for the new design of Vlaardingenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s architecture.
3.5m
1m
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An arial photo of Vlaardingen. In the event of a flood, much of it will be covered in water.
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Chapter 5
Vlaardingen industrial area in a flood situation
Vlaardingenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water front in a flood situation
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Typical response to flood threat - wooden boards can be fitted into the grooves
Raising the ground to minimise impact of tides and flooding
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Chapter 5
Proposed Master Plan by O.M.A Developing Company Below shows apartment buildings located on the
improve or take full advantage of the unique and
ic dwellings with clear vision for the area. The only
single family homes and apartments are proposed,
west half of the Vlaardingen site, which has sporat-
interesting site. Standard, efficient and low cost
recognition of the threat of water levels is that the
with no plan on how to make the site attractive to
ground floor is used as storage space with no active
the target demographics. The master plan turns
frontages. The proposed master plan submitted by
itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back to the existing old warehouses and har-
O.M.A to the Vlaardingen Council in 2015 does not
bour.
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Chapter 5
The International Architecture Biennale Of Rotterdam 2018 The next Biennale must be located in Vlaardingen.
ment sponsored events can kickstart interest and
client led urban design and the power of small scale
portunities for improvement. It is the first step in a
To showcase and draw attention to the benefits of
attention to the underutilized areas, with many op-
interventions in the flood zone regions. Govern-
series required to make the area successful.
Rotterdam Biennale 2016
2018
2030
Retrofit
Commercial Interest
Prototypes
Housing Interest
Housing Development
Consolidate new anchors - fabrication - experimentation - workshops - university - recreation and public access
Residential - couples - single - students - starting families
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Infill Development
Increased RegionalTransport
INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURE BIENNALE OF ROTTERDAM
CHANGING LEVELS Location: When:
Vlaardingen Summer 2018
A focus on floodzones, water, urbanism, architecture, adaptation, incorporation
Various prototypes, retrofits and visual representation of ideas will be placed around Vlaardingen to demonstrate how existing and defnuct harbour areas can be repurposed for future use
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Chapter 5
IABR 2018 Master Plan The IABR 2018 revolves around three main pro-
should be applied to all plots, aiming to provide
isting warehouses and structures to accomodate
working. Furthermore a variety of public spaces
posals. The renovation and retrofitting of the ex-
at least two different purposes such as living and
for the 3.5m flood line, and two other types of
will also be designed. The IABR 2018 will spread
dwellings. These focus on the flood lines as datum
across both sides of the old harbour, to re-invigo-
points, leaving the ground floor for flood resilient
rate the existing as well as the new.
program such as workshops. The mixed-use idea
Converted Warehouse
Stilthouse - multiple residences
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Stilthouse - single residence
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public typology - recreation
typology - stilthouse 6 occupants
typology - existing refurbishment
exhibition space - workshop
small typology - gatehouse
central plaza - market
en ding r a a Vl
public typology - recreation
stilt house - 4 occupants
exhibition space - talks
public typology - industry
converted warehouse - apartments
exhibition space - university
stilt house - 2 occupants
Development Changing Levels 2.0
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Chapter 5
Stilt House The stilt house typology follows two main rules to
ent programs, such as workshop, aged care, fab-
typology must have operable balconies that act like
family dwelling, couple, single residences, amongst
generate individuality yet an overall cohesion. Each
rication, teaching space, living, studio apartment,
cranes. This allows for it to be used as storage in
others. To create a healthy population mix, the ty-
the case of floods, as well as balconies. Secondly,
pologies must be open for interpretation and ex-
each development must have at least two differ-
perimentation.
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Public Spaces To compliment the development of Vlaardingenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
unique, and draw occupants throughout the area.
development must take place too. Undertaken by
in green spaces make for a vibrant public space.
growth of businesses and dwellings, public space
Working with a variety of thresholds and bringing
the local government, these projects aim to make
For example, the IABR 2018 can showcase univer-
the area appealing and unique. The public space
sity urban design projects that play with the tides
should have a variety of spaces so that the overall is
and use floating elements to create walkways.
1
2
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1.
Pontoons and raft that facilitate green space
2.
Housing that inhabits the edge
3.
Expressing the edge through built forms and recreation
4.
Edge conditions that interact with the changing tides
4
3
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Chapter 5
part 5.3
Division Following the feedback of the pentacrit, it was
to further divide the land. I sought to give a stron-
down into managable areas. Identifying existing
it without predetermining all of the boundaries.
important to explore how the site can be broken
ger framework for the architectural scale to inhab-
plot boundaries and using them as a starting point
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Development
Division
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Chapter 5
part 5.4
Design Development Delving into the design of the stilt house, I explored
The renovation of an existing warehouse and fac-
suit the Vlaardingen conditions. Applying the port
building to be re-used. The aim is to allow a univer-
how the greenhouse silhouette can be altered to
tory located in the old port area, allows the unique
aesthetic through the addition of cranes and mov-
sity or technical school to move in and use it as a
ing platforms, three seperate but cohesive dwell-
workshop, where construction and model making
ings were developed on a plot.
can occur with direct access to the water.
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Design Development
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6
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FINAL ITERATION The final iteration of the developments made throughout the semester.
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Chapter 6
part 6.1
Flood Lines Three typologies will be presented and explored
at the 2018 International Architecture Biennale of Rotterdam, located in Vlaardingen. The focus of the biennale is to bring attention to the architectural
and urban possibilities of detailed user driven de-
sign that incorporates and adapts to the threat of floods in the river deltas.
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Flood Lines Final Iteration
N SI U O
H
G
IO
D U ST D E C AN A E SP IC FF O
G
N
TI IS
EX
O TR
RE
TS
FI
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Chapter 6
IABR 20168 Overview
2016
Rotterdam Biennale 2018
Retrofit: technical school Prototypes
2030
Commercial Interest
Public Buildings
Housing Interest: young, single etc.
Housing Interest: Families
Consolidate new anchors - fabrication - experimentation - workshops - university - recreation and public access Residential - couples - single - students - starting families
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Increased Regional Transport Catalyst for Area
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PUblic space recreation
RENOVATION ground floor storage
Converted building FABRICATION
REnovation GATEHOUSE
CENTRAL PLAZA OPEN MARKET
public space recreation
stilt house 3 dwellings
converted building exhibition space
public space industry
Stilt house 2 dwellings
Converted WarehousE Technical School
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Chapter 6
Warehouse Conversion: Technical School
3.5 m 1m
3.5 m 1m
0
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1
5m
Final Iteration
Flood Lines
shell
work stations
MEZZANINES
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Public Building: Shared Office & Studios
c i r c
. h c r a io d u st a i d e m e r a sh
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Final Iteration
Flood Lines
3.5 m 1m
3.5 m
0
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1
5m
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Chapter 6
Residential Dwellings:
Dwelling 1 1 person - semi retired - academic consultant - works at home
Dwelling 2 1 person - young artist - part time work in rotterdam
dwelling 3 2 person - middle aged couple - children have left - architect and furniture designer
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Final Iteration
Flood Lines
Normal Situation
1m Flood
3.5m Flood
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Final Iteration
Flood Lines
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Section
BED BED
BATH
BED
TERRACE
KITCHEN / LIVING
KITCHEN
KITCHEN
BIKES
WORKSHOP
STUDIO
OFFICE
Program distribution
0
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1
5m
Final Iteration
Flood Lines
Third Floor
Second Floor
First Floor
Ground Floor
0
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1
5m
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Summer
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Final Iteration
Flood Lines
Winter
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Block Progression: Plots are not layed out equally, rather, lengths are sold individually to create a natural mix. Various minimums, regulations and encouragements will
be put in place to create a unity in the blocks without becoming overly deterministic.
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Flood Lines
1. 2020
PEDESTRIAN STRIPS TO BREAK UP BLOCKS
2. 2025
encourage minimum of 10 degree roof pitch
at least 1 metre between buildings
maximum building depth at 60%
limit garden buildings at 1 storey to connect with walkable fences
3. 2030
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Existing Site Plan:
Plot boundaries
0
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50
150m
Final Iteration
Flood Lines
Proposed Site Plan:
secondary road pedestrian path
0
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50
150m
Chapter 6
part 6.2
Implications The system and focuses of Vlaardingen that have
been explored in this proposal can be replicated
and further explored in other flood prone areas of the Nieuwe Maas Delta. Each area must build upon
their context to create livable environments that is generated and worked out by the clients. Admin-
istrations must avoid delineating standard master
plans, for these do not work in the long run. The
water systems of the Netherlands are rhythmic and sporadic both at once, the urban fabric that surrounds it must emulate this.
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Implications
maassluis
VLAARDINGEN hoek van holland
schiedam
rozenburg
spijkenisse
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International Architecture Biennale of Rotterdam with TU Delft, Municipalities of Rotterdam and Vlaardingen For more information and bookings visit: www.iabr.nl/floodlines2018
IABR - 2018 FLOOD LINES Summer Talks & Prototypes Floods and water levels Holland Water Management Warehouse conversion TU Delft Public buildings Municipality of Rotterdam Living spaces Flood Architecture Office Community projects Public space
VLAARDINGEN 23 APRIL - 10 JULY 2018
Vlaardingen Community Group
Student landscape architecture competition
Sectional Perspective of a flood adaptive dwelling prototype 0
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1
3m
Final Iteration
Conclusion
part 6.3
Conclusion Working on this project has been a fullfilling and
satisfying experience. The guidance of Andy Fergus and Katherine Sundermann has shown me to assess and critique the layers that influence urban de-
sign and architecture. The additional layer of water
and flooding has led to an interesting context for which a proposal is needed. The Dutch approach
of no-nonsense urban planning and government rigidity is effective for water protection, but not so
effective in creating exciting and livable flood zone areas. Through bringing a Australian lense to the Dutch scene has shaped my project, taking the successes of both and attempting to avoid the weak-
nesses. Further development would have focused on the architectural propositions, and strengthen-
ing the connection between the old town centre and the harbour.
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