‘THE
INTRASCAPES’
“The vastest landscapes lie within” Intrascapes reveal a unique landscape within—an ever-evolving urban form shaped by geography, society and time...
CONTENTS
Introduction First Impressions-Fieldwork Amsterdam Zuid
Analysis Framing Scenario Threats! Potentials... Guiding Theme Main Structures What does history say? Evolution Palimpsest Synthesis
Design Perspectives What Ifs? Philosophy Intentions: What can we achieve? Design Principles and Structure
Design Structure Small Medium Large Extra Large: Scaling up!
Structure Plan Overlapping the Perspectives Conflicts, Synergies, Priorities and Negotiations Impacts: Sustainable Development Goals Final Structure Plan Adjustments
Reflection-Individual Project Results Process and Methods Inner development and Reflective Urbanism
Reflection-Group References Appendix
FIRST IMPRESSIONS- Fieldwork ( ? !! ...)
1_HigherDensity,LowIntensity...2_Amsterdamhasa‘CornerPark’!!3_WehaveSub-Urbs?
Amsterdam Zuid is home to a bustling central business district filled with towering skyscrapers. Each day, thousands come here for work, but how many choose to make it their home? Often referred to as the financial mile of the city, this district is economically vital and features the best infrastructure in Amsterdam. But does it possess a genuine sense of community and vibrancy?
As land becomes an increasingly precious resource and landscaped areas a costly luxury, a critical question emerges: can Amsterdam truly afford to allocate its land to non-productive uses like pastoral lawns? Such spaces often lack contributions to biodiversity and provide limited value to social life. Do we genuinely need these lawns for their aesthetic appeal alone?
The ‘Amsterdamse Bos,’ conceived out of a commitment to enhancing urban greenery, occupies a remote corner of Amsterdam, far removed from the bustling city and the neighborhoods where people live. This vast green expanse holds the potential to become the city’s green heart, yet it suffers from poor connectivity and minimal interaction, resembling more of a holiday retreat than a vibrant city park.
In the Sloterplas district and Amstelveen, numerous social housing complexes create an impression of elegant community living from within. However, these buildings remain largely disconnected from the city’s fabric, functioning as isolated, self-contained blocks. Is this truly the vision of community living we aspire to in an urban setting?
In a country that constantly grapples with the balance between development and nature, how does a suburban lifestyle make sense? The dense, intricate fabric of Amsterdam Centrum reflects the historical value of land. Can Amsterdam truly afford to pursue a sparse development model? And if it has already embraced this approach, what actions should be taken to address the consequences?
While the historic canals were originally built for drainage and water management, the role, value, and conditions under which water interacts with the city are evolving. Today, urban water bodies offer recreational and heritage value and play a crucial role in climate resilience. This shift prompts us to explore new ways of living with water that extend beyond purely functional purposes.
AMSTERDAM ZUID
Introduction to Site and Fieldtrip
This map provides an introduction to the southern district of Amsterdam, establishing the geographical and contextual framework for this studio’s work. It traces the exact route taken during an exploratory field trip and captures the initial impressions formed along the way.
Throughout the excursion, several key stops were marked, each sparking preliminary reactions such as curiosity, surprise, and contemplation. These initial encounters formed the foundation of the study, serving as a significant catalyst for the project’s direction. The reactions recorded at each location played a pivotal role in shaping the subsequent stages of research, influencing both the study’s approach to hypothetical scenarios and the design process itself.
This map, therefore, not only documents the journey but also illustrates the formative impact of these first interactions with the district, which became instrumental in guiding the ongoing study
Growing Climate risk: Flood risk in 2100
The majority of Amsterdam’s habitable southern district, developed on land reclaimed from natural water bodies, lies significantly below sea level. This unique geographical characteristic renders the area highly susceptible to climate-related risks, particularly rising sea levels and flooding. The extensive reclamation efforts that transformed waterlogged areas into vibrant, livable spaces are now under increasing threat as climate change intensifies, raising concerns about the district’s long-term resilience and the sustainability of its infrastructure.
Flood Risk Zones
Unbalanced ‘Urban Intensity’
The uneven distribution of urban activity in Amsterdam has led to significant overcrowding and pressure on infrastructure in the city’s central areas, while the outer, peripheral zones experience comparatively less active and under-utilized. This imbalance causes the city’s core to face challenges such as congestion, overburdened public services, and strained transportation networks, reducing overall quality of life for residents and diminishing the area’s appeal for businesses. Meanwhile, the less-developed peripheral zones present untapped potential, with ample space and resources that remain underutilized. This disparity not only hampers the city’s cohesive growth but also limits opportunities for sustainable urban expansion, highlighting a pressing need for strategies that balance urban density and promote more equitable development across all areas of Amsterdam.
Mixed Use Areas
Area under threat of ‘Urban Expansion’
With Amsterdam’s boundaries continuously expanding, the southern district has seen extensive development over the past five decades, encroaching on the few remaining green corridors that once characterized the area.
Further expansion threatens to erase these vital green wedges built purposefully to bring nature into the city, which serve as natural buffers, recreational spaces, and ecological habitats within the city.
Areas Under threat of Expansion
High
Landscape as Infrastructure
Multi-centrality in Urban Intensity
Establishing multiple high-intensity zones through mixed-use developments can help distribute foot traffic more evenly across Amsterdam, fostering a more balanced urban experience and introducing a multi-centered city model. By concentrating a blend of residential, commercial, recreational, and cultural spaces within these zones, Amsterdam can alleviate pressure on the overburdened city center and stimulate growth in underutilized areas. This approach not only improves accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors but also enhances economic vitality by drawing investment and activity to diverse districts.
Possible future Local centres
Mixed Use Areas
Room ‘IN’ the city
Amsterdam Zuid boasts an abundance of green spaces that hold significant potential as natural infrastructure to combat and mitigate the impacts of climate change. These green areas—including parks, gardens, and tree-lined boulevards—offer more than recreational value; they serve as essential assets in managing urban climate risks. By absorbing rainwater, reducing surface runoff, and providing natural cooling through shade and evapotranspiration, these spaces can help alleviate flooding, reduce urban heat, and improve air quality. As climaterelated challenges intensify, the strategic use and enhancement of Amsterdam Zuid’s green spaces could play a crucial role in fostering a more resilient and sustainable urban environment, benefiting both the community and the city at large. This theme emphasizes the concept of “room” within the urban landscape, inviting us to think innovatively about enhancing the livability of cities without the need to expand their physical boundaries. It encourages a creative exploration of under-utilized spaces and overlooked areas within the city, highlighting the potential to transform these sites into vibrant, functional environments. By reimagining how we use existing spaces—such as vacant lots, rooftops, and public squares—we can foster community engagement, promote sustainable practices, and ultimately create a more inclusive and enjoyable urban experience for all residents. This approach not only addresses the challenges of urbanization but also promotes a thoughtful and resourceful use of the city’s existing infrastructure.
Un-built
THE ‘INTRASCAPES’
Between Concrete & Canopies
To tackle the new urgencies of Low-lands, I advocate for an inward-looking approach, identifying potential spaces within the city—waste spaces, fragmented greens, underutilized areas, and drosscapes—to be reimagined and repurposed. This strategy involves ‘widening’ the urban fabric from within, filling these newly identified ‘Sockets’ with curated interventions- ‘Plugins’ that blend social and ecological elements of varying intensities.
MAIN STRUCTURES
Main Structures Map
This map illustrates key urban features observed during an initial review of the city map and preliminary fieldwork impressions and chosen guiding theme. The thick black lines represent the arterial street grid, which serves as the city’s main framework, while thinner black lines indicate secondary grids with high development potential. Additionally, the map shows the overlapping railway network in red, emphasizing the importance of the central corridor, especially in the Zuidas area. Another thing that the map subtly highlights is the grain of unbuilt spaces and open fragments within the city fabric.
Highlighted water networks include the primary waterways and significant water bodies. Green spaces are categorized as “city greens” (parks, gardens, and forested areas) and “polder greens” (farmlands and undeveloped land). While city greens hold potential for densification and more intensive use, polder landscapes are positioned as suitable areas for future urban expansion.
Finally, lower-elevation areas, identified as potential flood zones, are also mapped. The intersections of these low-lying areas with various landscapes reveal critical hotspots for climate resilience initiatives.
Source: Author
Zuidas
To Hague
To Utrecht
Centrum
WHAT DOES HISTORY SAY?
Source: Door Hein Berlage - Gemeente Amsterdam, Publiek domein, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.
A- PLAN ZUID- H.P.BERLAGE 1905 : Planning is an Art and Urban Development is an Economic question
The Plan Zuid was a blend of artistic vision and economic pragmatism, creating an urban environment that not only enhances daily life through beauty but also bolsters the city’s financial health. By prioritizing high-quality living spaces and visually engaging public areas, Plan Zuid increased Amsterdam’s allure, encouraging both residential and commercial investment. Berlage’s strategy underscored that urban planning could serve as an economic catalyst, reinforcing how planning as an art could drive lasting economic benefit.
Source: The Amsterdam City Archives - http://archief.amsterdam/archief/10095/497
B- AUP- VAN EESTEREN 1934: Planning is Utilitarian and Urban Development is a balance between Man and Nature
The AUP was designed to address Amsterdam’s pressing needs during the interwar period, focusing on functionality, practicality, and the efficient use of space. Van Eesteren’s approach was utilitarian in that it aimed to maximize public benefit by providing housing, infrastructure, and green spaces that served the community’s immediate and long-term needs. For the southern region of Amsterdam, this meant expanding upon Berlage’s Plan Zuid by introducing more structured zoning principles.
The AUP prioritized green spaces, water bodies, and parks, integrating them into urban life as essential features rather than afterthoughts. The Amstel River, Nieuwe meer, Amsterdam Bos and surrounding parks, for instance, became central to the southern expansion, creating a seamless transition between urban life and natural landscapes.
To truly understand the evolution of a city, it’s essential to examine past masterplans, the visions that shaped them, and the aspirations they set for the city in their respective eras. This perspective allows us to trace how each plan influenced the city’s development and highlights the shifts in urban priorities and design philosophies over time.
Built form (Particular time period)
The evolution of Amsterdam reveals that although much of the central city was built before 1900, its urban infrastructure was relatively underdeveloped at that time. Amsterdam was largely reliant on its waterways for transport, trade, and daily life, with much of its iconic canal infrastructure only being finalized in the early 20th century. These waterways shaped the city’s structure and played a central role in its growth.
After the 1950s, however, Amsterdam’s focus shifted toward expanding green spaces and promoting sustainable urban design through the “Green Wedge City” concept. This visionary approach aimed to integrate natural landscapes directly into the urban fabric, allowing green spaces to extend from the city center to its outer edges. A pivotal part of this strategy was the creation of the ‘Amsterdamse Bos’—a vast forested park designed to bring ecological balance and recreational areas to urban life. This initiative marked a significant step in Amsterdam’s efforts to harmonize urban expansion with environmental conservation, making green infrastructure central to the city’s identity and resilience.
Parks and gardens
Street Network
Water bodies
City Evolution Map
PLAIMPSEST: Permanent, Persistant and Changing Structures
Palimpsest
Amsterdam’s urban fabric can be understood through the concept of a palimpsest—a surface that has been written on, erased, and written on again, with traces of the past still visible beneath each new layer. In this light, the city’s structures can be categorized as persistent, evolving, or permanent, each contributing unique layers to the city’s historical and spatial narrative. Water infrastructure, for example, serves as a highly persistent layer of the urban palimpsest. While it undergoes constant adaptation to meet modern demands, its fundamental structure and purpose endure, highlighting society’s enduring reliance on it. Similarly, Amsterdam’s green spaces, introduced nearly a century ago, remain integral to the city’s landscape; if they evolve, it is more likely through expansion rather than replacement, adding another layer rather than erasing past ones. In contrast, the landscape along major infrastructural corridors is continually evolving, with future innovations and developments shaped by the framework of previous layers. Here, changes are less about erasure and more about adaptation within the pre-existing structure of the city.
Finally, Amsterdam’s historic city center and Schiphol Airport represent permanent elements within the urban palimpsest. The old city functions as a historical anchor, while Schiphol is a pillar of modern infrastructure; both are unlikely to change significantly, embodying layers that define and solidify Amsterdam’s identity and functionality.
Main Structures Map
This synthesis, informed by the framing scenario and guiding theme, provides a comprehensive mapping of the visible potentials identified in previous studies. It highlights key elements, such as the city’s green patchwork and its interconnected street network, which can serve as crucial ecological corridors. These corridors have the potential to link emerging centralities that function as economic and cultural hubs.
It also identifies low-elevation zones as promising future green reservoirs, illustrating both their current and potential connections to enhance urban biodiversity and resilience. The mapping incorporates a layer of under-utilized zones, using it as a backdrop to identify areas ripe for intervention and revitalization.Additionally, it maps the major water networks and bodies within the urban fabric, underscoring their significant role in shaping the overall urban form and promoting ecological health. It also critically assesses the function of the central axis within the city, questioning whether it acts as a unifying spine or a divisive barrier between neighborhoods. Finally, the mapping of high-intensity zones, typically driven by the presence of mixed-use developments, serves to delineate potential new central areas. Overall, this synthesis presents a holistic view of the city’s potential, advocating for a thoughtful approach to urban development that maximizes existing resources and promotes sustainability.
Possible Green Network connections Central spine OR A barrier?
Porous network
Water body Network
Future Green Addition to Patchwork
“Seeking the Invisible landscapes within, We delved deeper”
We uncovered a place that shaped us and, in turn, we respond now, speaking of past lives and future dreams in unison.
What if
Amsterdam was walled once again, forcing its inhabitants to find space solely within its existing boundaries?
What if
Amsterdam created a Green Grid to unite its Urban Greenery?
MUTABLE
Urbanism
What if
Amsterdam adopted a new temporary architecture typology, where no new permanent structures were allowed?
Juxtaposition
What if
Amsterdam was built to welcome flooding as a Resource?
RESILIENT
Urbanism
What if A New Social Space Movement Began?
Asking the People What They Want in Their City”
What if
Amsterdam decides to Integrate Greenery with Built Form? Transforming Buildings into Living Ecosystems
*
“What if” questions arise from a thoughtful consideration of three interconnected elements: The framing scenario, the guiding theme- Intrascapes, and the Design philosophy. Together, these components inspire complex inquiries that foster creativity and innovative thinking, allowing for a deeper exploration of possibilities and potential outcomes.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
Soft Contructs
Between Concrete and Canopies
User/Society/SocioCultural Form Functional form
Material Form of Spaces Supporting Infrastructure Ecological form Frequency
* Source: Author Adapted from: Urhahn: polsslag van de verandering (2010)
The design philosophy emerging from the framing scenario and guiding theme emphasizes a reinterpretation of the changing frequencies within urban environments. It anticipates a future where generational shifts are no longer defined solely by age, leading to rapid societal and cultural transformations. This philosophy identifies a new frequency of change as the ‘genius loci’ of design, asserting that the principles guiding the development of urban intrascapes must be rooted in this understanding.
The swift changes characteristic of today’s society necessitate a corresponding adaptability in the functional and physical forms of built spaces. This demand for flexibility contrasts with the slower pace of change in infrastructure and ecological systems, which, while not directly impeding these shifts, must still support the rapid evolution of urban environments.
Built-use needs to catchup to societal change!
Urban Form needs to Adapt to new functions quickly!
Infrastructure to adapt as per developing Urban fabric
Ecological landscape mustn’t be comprised and remain resilient
Urban Form adapts socio-cultural systems
Efficient use of Precious Urban Land
Development of a new Architectural typology
A New collective Built Form emerges
Urban Expansion slowed down, if not prevented
Mixed use development- equitable urban growth
Integration of Ecological fabric with the Built Form
Development of strong Ecological Heritage
Rigid Climate resilience network
This philosophy informs several schematic design intentions, advocating for built and functional forms that can quickly adapt to society’s changing needs. It calls for adaptable, temporary urban solutions that, when integrated with intrascapes, can lead to efficient land use and the development of innovative architectural typologies. Ultimately, this approach seeks to uncover new collective forms of architecture that not only mitigate urban sprawl but also foster resilient integration with infrastructural and ecological frameworks.
‘FRAMEWORK CONCEPT’
DESIGN PRINCIPLES
Cross-Scaler Approach
For designing fragmented, small-scale urban spaces, a cross-scalar approach proves most effective. This method ensures that interventions are not only examined at the granular level of materials and functionality but also evaluated for their broader impacts on neighborhood and regional scales. As we zoom out, certain elements must be adapted or adjusted to integrate these interventions seamlessly into a larger urban network.
New Urbanism Language- Plugins and Ecology are Design Styles now!
A new “socket and plug-in” approach paves the way for a dynamic, adaptable, and experimental language in urbanism and architecture. In this model, ecology—once considered an add-on to the urban fabric—becomes deeply integrated into architecture, evolving into an essential element and a core design language. This fusion encourages designs that are not only responsive to environmental needs but also flexible enough to adapt to changing urban demands.
Citizen-led urbanism promotes a bottom-up approach to developing public spaces within cities, where citizens drive and manage the entire process within a government-regulated framework. This model leverages new technologies to create flexible, temporary urban spaces that can quickly adapt to the changing needs of the community.
Given the rising sea levels and the southern region’s designation as a high-risk flood-prone area, future flooding is not just a possibility but a certainty that must shape all current and future development. Building in this context demands a proactiveapproach,integratingfloodresilienceandadaptivedesignasfoundational principles. Every new structure, landscape, and public space must be engineered to withstand, adapt to, and ideally mitigate the impacts of anticipated flooding.
Impermanence and Persistence
Permanent structures, being resource-intensive and slower to adapt to societal shifts, often lack the flexibility needed for evolving urban needs. In contrast, impermanent structures emerging from experiments, shifting demands, and innovate in technology and skills, create new urban language. Through this process, elements that resonate deeply with the community and culture have the opportunity to persist, eventually transitioning from temporary to permanent as they prove their lasting value.
Citizen Led Urbanism.
Flooding As the New Normal!
SMALL
Source: https://www.jpe.com.au/projects/sedi-urban-furniture-designSource: https://waterborne-env.com/
Urban furniture plays a crucial role in creating urban intensity by encouraging people to linger, rest, socialize, and navigate comfortably, and enhancing the usability, comfort, and vibrancy of public spaces. Elements such as benches, lighting, bus shelters, bike racks, trash bins, planters, and wayfinding signs contribute significantly to how people experience and interact within urban environments.
Source:
Sustainable architecture is instrumental in promoting a balance between built environments and nature, supporting climate resilience through environmentally conscious design, resource efficiency, and the integration of natural elements into urban spaces. By prioritizing eco-friendly materials, renewable energy sources, and efficient building practices, sustainable architecture seeks to reduce the environmental footprint of structures and, in turn, foster a symbiotic relationship with the surrounding ecosystem.
Bioswales play a critical role in flood resilience by managing stormwater runoff, reducing flood risks, and enhancing water quality. These vegetated, shallow channels are designed to capture and filter rainwater, allowing it to infiltrate the ground slowly rather than overwhelming urban drainage systems. By strategically placing bioswales in flood-prone areas, cities can significantly reduce surface water runoff during heavy rains, alleviating stress on sewage infrastructure and preventing localized flooding.
Street design impacts urban intensity and ecological resilience by creating spaces that encourage vibrant public life and support environmental health. Elements like wide sidewalks, green infrastructure, tree canopies, and flexible public spaces attract pedestrians, reduce heat, manage stormwater, and support biodiversity. Together, these features make streets more engaging for people while helping cities adapt to climate challenges, fostering sustainable, resilient urban environments.
The current scope of the project does not require this level of detailed work just yet, as it may be too granular at this stage. However, I would still like to suggest some small-scale interventions that could make a significant impact on the overall progress and effectiveness of this theme.
UrbanFurniture
StreetDesign
Bio-Swales
MEDIUM: Plugin Design Catalogue
BUILDING SOCKET
BUILDING SOCKET
STREET SOCKET
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Social Stairs
Architecture Agriculture Boxes
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Shade and Seating Nooks
Social Rooms
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence
Sky Bridges
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence
People Watching Towers
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Digital Media Facades
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Urban Play
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence Vending Markets
MEDIUM: Plugin Design Catalogue
OPEN SPACE SOCKET
GREEN SPACE SOCKET
Mini Concerts
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence
Micro-Wetlands
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Canal Beach
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Food Courts
Micro Biodiversity Zones
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence
Water-Based Fitness Zones
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence Urban Camping
Wildlife Observation Decks
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation Persistence
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence Floating Parks
WATER SOCKET
TECHNOLOGICAL PLUG-IN
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence Space Share App
POLICY PLUG-IN
Ecological Intensity
Built Intensity
Flood Resilience
Citizen Control
Innovation
Persistence Temporary Urbanism City Boundary
ECONOMIC PLUG-IN
INCENTIVES (+ve)
Periodic Impact Assessment
Use-Specific Zoning Exceptions
Dedicated Oversight Committee
Tax Breaks for Property Owners
Permit Fee Waivers
Publicity and Marketing Support
Partnerships with Local Businesses
REGULATIONS (-ve)
Permitting for Temporary Uses
Time-Limited Use with Renewal Options
Periodic Impact Assessment
Community Consultation Requirements
Code Compliance and Safety Standards
Environmental Standards
POP- UP RENTINGSUBSCRIPTION BASED MODEL POPS- Privately Owned Public Spaces
A Pop-Up Renting Model can create a flexible, short-term arrangement where vendors, artists, and small businesses pay a nominal fee to utilize temporary spaces in underutilized areas of a city.
A Subscription-Based Access Model could be a powerful approach for enabling local vendors, food trucks, and startups to gain flexible access to temporary spaces throughout the city. Rather than leasing a specific space, vendors subscribe to a service that provides rotating access to a network of locations, creating a more dynamic and city-wide engagement strategy.
Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) are outdoor or indoor spaces that, while owned and maintained by private entities (such as real estate developers or corporations), are legally required or voluntarily designated to be accessible to the public. They are typically created as part of agreements between private developers and city governments, where developers receive incentives like zoning bonuses (e.g., increased building height or density) in exchange for providing public amenities.
The current design catalog offers a select number of interventions that have significant potential for expansion over time. This project serves as an initial step in developing and advancing this approach which could be detailed further.
LARGE- Zuidas Area
Applying the Design Catalogue to a Sample Zone : Zuidas Area
The map above illustrates an effort to apply the previously developed design catalog to a selected site scale. The application process involves the following steps:
1. Mapping all unbuilt areas within the chosen zone.
2. Identifying potential intervention sites in vacant parcels.
3. Establishing major ecological corridors for connectivity.
4. Creating connections between smaller intervention sites.
5. Utilizing the design catalog to determine suitable uses for selected parcels.
6. Exploring possible upgrades to existing structures through the design catalog.
Importantly, this map is not intended as a fixed or regulatory plan. Its core purpose is to remain dynamic and adaptable, evolving continuously in response to logic, societal needs, and climate conditions.
Ecological Corridors
Regulatory Boundary for Temporray Urbanism
Built Socket-Plugins
Street Socket- Plugins
Social Connectivity Networks Selected Parcels for Interventions
Water Socket- Plugins
Open Space Socket- Plugins
Green Socket- Plugins
Un-Built Areas
Water Bodies
“Creating with Intention, we turn inner landscapes into shared realms”
Each
layer is a bridge,
linking individual
dreams with collective purpose—a place where society and ecology breathe in harmony.
EXTRA LARGE- SCALING UP!
Individual Structure Plan
The structure map serves as a key tool in identifying proposed areas for intensive interventions, assessing their relationship with both built mass and ecological systems. By mapping out these relationships, it becomes easier to visualize which regions are likely to prioritize eco-centric design approaches in open spaces and which will focus more on building-related interventions.
Adopting a heat-map style zoning method at the city scale, this approach segments areas according to the density and intensity of built structures versus their ecological significance. This technique scales up the “plug-in” model, distributing smaller, adaptive interventions—whether architectural or ecological—across the city to align with each zone’s specific needs and intensity. Such an approach ensures that design strategies are not only tailored but also responsive to the larger environmental and urban systems, supporting a harmonious integration of natural and built environments.
Source: Author
OVERLAPPING THE PERSPECTIVES
What if
We create transitions between green spaces and built environment?
What if
We find all the unused fragments of the city and add function to them?
STERRESANNERITIKA
What if
Extreme flood distributes Amsterdam into Islands?
Multi-Centrality
A green structure connecting green and urban areas
Self-Dependency
Proposed Urban Intensity Zoning
Zoning plan to make room for the river and transitions into urban islands
Source: Sterre keukens. Sanne Doornbusch, Author
OVERLAPPING THE PERSPECTIVES
Overlapping
the Three Design Perspectives
The three of us approached design from diverse perspectives, each focusing on different elements and scales, leading to a rich tapestry of ideas.
Sterre centered her concept around the notion of lines and networks, envisioning a cohesive connection between urban areas and green spaces. By emphasizing the importance of interconnected pathways and green corridors, she aims to foster greater accessibility and enhance the ecological integrity of urban environments.
Ritika began her exploration at a granular level, examining fragmented land uses within urban settings. She translates these micro-level observations into a larger-scale heat map that depicts the intensity of built forms, ecological elements, and various transition zones. This visual representation helps to identify areas of high activity and ecological significance, allowing for a better understanding of how different spaces interact and influence one another.
Sanne, on the other hand, operates on a much larger scale, tackling the pressing issue of extreme weather conditions, particularly flooding, and its impacts on urban areas. Her research delves into how cities can adapt to these challenges through resilient design strategies. By analyzing urban infrastructure and planning in relation to climate change, Sanne aims to develop solutions that mitigate the effects of flooding while enhancing the overall resilience of the urban landscape. Her work emphasizes the necessity for proactive measures that not only address immediate concerns but also consider long-term sustainability.
Interestingly, our three ideas overlap in meaningful and harmonious ways as shown in the map. By integrating Sterre’s emphasis on connectivity, Ritika’s insights into spatial relationships, and Sanne’s strategies for resilience, we can create a comprehensive approach to urban design.
Source: Sterre keukens. Sanne Doornbusch, Author
CONFLICTS, SYNERGIES, PRIORITIES AND NEGOTIATIONS
CONFLICTS
PRIORITIES
Connected City
Sterre and Ritika support green spaces and interconnected urban regions.
SYNERGIES
Fragmented City
Sanne explores an extreme scenario in which urban areas and green spaces disintegrate into fragmented islands.
Overlapping Boundaries
Green corridors and island boundaries overlap, allowing for a more effective use of green networks for flood resilience.
New Centralities for future
The island’s intensities work together by pointing out possible focal points for the future.
Flood Resilience
Flood resilience is the foremost priority because of Sanne’s highlighted urgency.
NEGOTIATIONS
Eco-Centric Strategies
In the event of flooding, ecological strategies become the first concern.
Relocating and Strengthing od borders
It becomes a crucial to align as many of the green network’s borders with island boundaries.
Built-Centric to Ecocentric Intensity
Because of the potential of flooding, transitioning built-intensive areas to ecointensive is ideal for future resilience.
CONFLICTS, SYNERGIES, PRIORITIES AND NEGOTIATIONS
Asessing Conlicts and Synergies to find Priorities and make Negotiations
As the conflict takes on a more ideological dimension, the map presents a simplified overview of the zones of synergy, prioritization, and negotiation. It highlights the significance of the Amstel River and its floodplains, alongside the dykes proposed by Sanne and Sterre, which emerge as critical priorities for the future of Amsterdam, especially as the city faces severe flooding challenges projected for 2100.
Sanne emphasizes the areas susceptible to flooding, identifying safe islands formed by this hydrological reality. She advocates for establishing protective borders around these islands to either shield them from floodwaters or mitigate their impact. These proposed borders align synergistically with Sterre’s vision of green edges and corridors, creating a cohesive approach to urban resilience. In terms of connectivity, certain borders may be prioritized to enhance interconnectivity within the islands themselves, fostering accessibility and ecological coherence. The intensity proposed by Ritika within these islands synergizes well with the overall vision, as these areas are intended to become multi-central zones for the city. In the event of flooding, this intensity could increase, serving as focal points for community engagement and emergency response.
Room for negotiation arises when borders do not align perfectly, leading to adjustments that may need to be made. In high-risk flooding zones, discussions surrounding the nature of intensity become essential, as stakeholders must collaboratively determine how to manage and adapt to these conditions. Ultimately, the interplay between protective measures and ecological considerations will shape the future of Amsterdam’s urban landscape.
IMPACT- Sustainable Development Goals!
Source: https://sdgs.un.org/goalsSource: https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Designing for flood resilience aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11 by fostering cities and communities that can withstand climate-induced flooding events. By incorporating flood-resistant infrastructure, adaptable urban planning, and green spaces that absorb excess water, this design approach reduces vulnerability to floods, protecting both people and ecosystems.
Multi-centrality, or the development of multiple economic hubs within a city or region, fosters economic growth by decentralizing opportunities and reducing congestion in urban centers. By creating diverse, accessible centers for work, commerce, and innovation across a city, multi-centrality enables local businesses to thrive, stimulates job creation, and enhances access to quality employment opportunities. This approach reduces commuter times, enhances productivity, and supports a balanced urban development, which in turn boosts local economies.
Source: https://sdgs.un.org/goalsSource: https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Green connective and ecological corridors play a significant role in achieving SDG 9 bypromoting sustainable infrastructure, and driving innovation in ecosystem-based design by encouraging innovative infrastructure solutions that merge ecological and urban needs.
Eco-tensity, or the concept of building dense, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly urban spaces, directly supports SDG 11 by promoting compact urban growth that minimizes environmental impact. By focusing on efficient land use, eco-tensity reduces urban sprawl and preserves surrounding natural areas. Additionally, eco-tensity promotes accessible, walkable neighborhoods, increasing residents’ access to services, green spaces, and social infrastructure, fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban communities aligned with SDG 11.
FINAL STRUCTURE PLAN
Final Structure Plan
The final structural plan serves as a comprehensive zoning and strategic framework that guides individual design perspectives, allowing for adaptability based on ongoing negotiations. It identifies key axes as major green corridors, which play a dual role: connecting all islands while also providing essential flood protection and mitigation through their sponge-like characteristics. These corridors are designed to absorb and manage excess water, thereby enhancing the city’s resilience to flooding.
The built intensity zones are marked to indicate future centralities, prioritizing specific areas for development and higher density. This prioritization will help to strategically allocate resources and focus efforts on regions that can effectively support growth.
The blue-hatched areas signify zoning restrictions, outlining the nature of interventions permissible in these zones. Darker blue areas emphasize the need for flood-resilient development and public spaces specifically designed for submergence, ensuring that infrastructure can withstand and adapt to flooding conditions. In contrast, the lighter blue areas are intended for flood mitigation; these spaces will not be completely floodproof but will leverage flooding as a resource, incorporating provisions for water management. This approach allows for greater potential for development and expansion, creating versatile environments that can evolve alongside the changing landscape. Overall, the plan reflects a balanced integration of ecological resilience, urban development, and community needs.
ADJUSTMENTS POST NEGOTIATIONS
Adjustments in Individual Structure Plan
Through the integration of the structure plan with various design perspectives, several adjustments and compromises were made to align with both immediate and long-term goals. In particular, some zoning classifications had to be redefined to accommodate more ecologically focused design strategies, reflecting future-oriented planning considerations.
In my specific approach, adjustments were necessary in multiple areas, shifting zoning to prioritize ecological resilience. This shift was driven by projected climate scenarios for 2100, which indicate that certain regions face a high risk of flooding.
The map above highlights these adapted zones, showcasing areas where zoning was modified to prioritize ecological considerations. A new, fine-grained green infrastructure network has been introduced at the micro level, characterized by high ecological intensity and carefully planned transition zones.
‘ECO-TENSE INTRASCAPES’
Between Concrete and Canopies
“A design ethos where human habitation and ecological integrity intertwine, fostering spaces that harmonize the complexities of our existence with the rhythms and dynamism of nature.”
Project Results
Disclaimer
This project and its results are shaped by the perspective of someone experiencing the city for the first time, navigating its context, climate, and culture. While I recognize that the research is still in shallow waters, it is fresh and unique, influenced both by my new perspective and the process through which it was developed.
Guiding Theme
The concept of ‘intrascapes’ became a central guiding theme for my work, and I believe this was triggered by the version of Amsterdam I encountered—a city far removed from the global, historic image I once had in mind. Rather than the bustling, hyperactive urban environment I expected, I saw vast, seemingly empty spaces. To an outsider, these spaces appeared underutilized or held little perceived value, although I recognized that functionally or ecologically, they might serve important roles. This observation sparked a desire to contribute something meaningful to these areas—something that would inject life and intensity. Through my research, I attempted to question how these spaces are being used, particularly in light of the limited supply of valuable urban land, and whether they could offer more in terms of urban vitality and activity.
Design Perspectives and Structure Plan
My design perspective was shaped by brainstorming and the application of theoretical frameworks learned during the course. These ideas materialized into a design toolkit that takes a cross-scalar approach to understanding and designing intrascapes—an approach that critically considers the layering of spaces, their uses, and their potential for transformation. The toolkit offers a flexible catalogue of design interventions that can be adapted across different scales in the city, from small public spaces to broader urban contexts. One of the most challenging aspects was reconciling small-scale design concepts with a larger structure plan. However, I managed to simplify and refine the details, guided by the idea that different scales of intervention demand different priorities—a concept derived from my understanding of the Powers of Ten theory. Once I clarified what was most critical at each scale, integrating these insights into the broader structure plan felt more intuitive. Through careful analysis and thoughtful negotiation, my design perspective aligned well with the larger urban strategy, and I was able to articulate a clear vision of how intrascapes could be meaningfully reimagined across the city.
Consequences/ Implications In Context of SDGs
While my work at this stage may not explicitly address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it engages with several of them and holds significant potential for further development in this direction. The central theme of my design work operates at a very small scale, yet it offers promising opportunities to contribute to important issues such as gender equality, industry innovation, and infrastructure. Moreover, it aims to promote decent work and economic growth while enhancing the overall health and well-being of individuals. I strive to create spaces that harmonize life on land and in water, recognizing the interconnectedness of these environments.
Inner Development and Reflective Urbanism
Reflecting on my inner development goals from this quarter, the most significant focus has been on nurturing my relationship with the urbanist within me. This journey has involved practicing self-awareness, allowing me to clarify the values I hold and the aspirations I wish to cultivate. By bringing clarity and faith to my beliefs, I have been able to orient my inner compass in a way that I have not experienced in my seven years in the field.
Through this process of reflection, I have recognized the cognitive and practical skills I have developed, particularly critical thinking, perspective-taking, sense-making, and perseverance. These skills have emerged as my strengths this quarter, guiding my approach to urbanism. However, I also identified areas that require serious attention in future quarters, particularly my communication and intercultural competence skills. I believe these aspects hindered my ability to engage fully with my peers and diminished opportunities for collaborative learning.
At the start of the quarter, I articulated several core values that I believe are essential to my practice as an urbanist:
1. A commitment to a just lens in design.
2. Adaptability and incrementalism in both mindset and skill development.
3. The courage to make significant decisions and face their consequences in design.
4. Patience and consistency in long-term projects.
5. The ability to collaborate willingly and in enforced circumstances.
Upon revisiting these values, I realize that, although I may not have addressed them directly, they have influenced my design work in subtle ways. Moving forward, I am committed to internalizing these principles more deeply and ensuring they resonate throughout my practice.
Process and Methods
Journey
When I began my studies at this university, I felt like I was in between—neither fully an architect nor an urbanist. My knowledge was fragmented and context-specific. This quarter has been less about mastering every aspect of urbanism and more about understanding the trajectory I need to follow to truly become an urbanist. I now realize that it’s not feasible to absorb all the theory or perfect my designs in a short span of time, but I have gained a clearer vision of what I need to learn and how to approach it. This is the first step on a journey that will last a lifetime.
Course Structure and Approach
The course format was a significant departure from my previous experiences in India, but I found that the two main courses complemented each other well. The structure allowed me to feel more liberated and confident in my learning process. Initially, I felt overwhelmed, possibly because my approach was too idealistic. I tried to grasp everything at once in a fast-paced environment. However, as the quarter progressed, I found a more balanced approach—focusing on key elements that resonated with my guiding theme during the classes. This shift in mindset has brought greater clarity to how I approach my studies, and I now feel more familiar with the learning patterns here. I anticipate that future quarters will be less overwhelming as a result.
Method Labs and Theory Lectures
Given the unfamiliarity of the context and site, the theory lectures became a vital anchor for my work, providing clarity and structure. Each lecture sparked new ideas and helped refine my guiding theme and design approach. The course was thoughtfully structured to allow these theoretical insights to be applied at critical stages of the project, layering my design with urbanism concepts at the right moments. The smaller assignments and method labs, though at times felt like extra effort, proved invaluable. They provided essential tools, often driving my work forward in unexpected ways.
Mentorship
Working with Claudiu in the studio was a highlight of my quarter. His guidance extended beyond design—it helped shape my overall approach to the project. I particularly appreciated his organized and structured manner, which resonated with my own need for order and clarity. Coming from a more formal, hierarchical academic culture, I initially struggled to adapt to the more open and collegial relationships with faculty here. This is something I will continue to work on as I move through the program.
Group Work
As the only non-European in the group, I often felt like the “odd one out” due to cultural differences. My introverted nature further slowed my integration into the group dynamics. The cultural contrasts were also evident in our approaches to work-life balance, design processes, and group discussions. However, these differences allowed me to recognize my own strengths, particularly during the structure planning stage. I took on a leadership role, helping to unify our ideas, and I’m grateful that my teammates accepted this dynamic in a collaborative spirit.
Studio Process
The structure of our studio hours was another element I deeply appreciated. The Tuesday morning exercises, where we quickly revised and applied theory to our guiding themes, became an essential part of my process. Though theory initially felt overwhelming, the practice of applying it in short, focused exercises helped me internalize the concepts in a way that I’ll never forget. Presentations and feedback sessions were equally valuable, providing clarity on my project’s direction and giving me the opportunity to test how well my ideas translated to others.
Additional Tools
(Miro, ChatGpt, GIS, Procreate and helpful literature)
Throughout the quarter, several tools proved essential to my work. Miro was central to our group brainstorming sessions, and I also used it for organizing my personal work. ChatGPT played an important role in refining my language, particularly when articulating my guiding theme and design perspectives. It helped improve the clarity and precision of my writing and also helped in gathering information. Additionally, GIS and Procreate were pivotal in creating my visual content. Although I struggled with the time-consuming nature of GIS, I found that using Procreate for styling and presenting maps suited my thinking and working process better. I plan to engage more deeply with GIS in future quarters, recognizing its importance despite my current preference for sketch-based tools. In addition, I referred to several pieces of literature, which I have listed separately under references.
As I navigate my journey as an urbanist, I find myself constantly learning and unlearning. Each experience shapes my understanding, influenced by the cultures I encounter, the unique contexts I explore, and the pressing realities of our changing climate.
”
REFLECTION-Group
Studio Interactions
The open studio discussions in the initial weeks served as valuable ice-breakers, encouraging us to engage with one another. These sessions, supported by exercises stemming from theory lectures, allowed us to explore each other’s ideas and perspectives, creating mutual understanding. Engaging with our peers in this way provided insights into each other’s creative processes and offered a preview of our group members’ unique approaches. Miro was instrumental in facilitating this, enabling us to track our own progress and that of our peers in a visual format.
Method Labs
Our first group method lab marked a significant step in synthesizing our structure plan, laying a groundwork that helped till the end. The second method lab further allowed us to engage deeply with our design ideas from a qualitative standpoint, encouraging us to look critically at our concepts. These sessions were also a source of inspiration, as they enabled us to appreciate and learn from the work of other students.
Project Integration
Given the diversity of our guiding themes, we found it easier to align our perspectives and approaches with minimal conflict. For us, successfully developing the structural plan required prioritization and negotiation, skills in which we all grew stronger as a result. Sanne’s more radical approach challenged us to think differently, pushing us to confront initial difficulties in scaling our ideas. Starting from the Zuidas area and gradually expanding outward allowed us all to better understand the larger context. Through the integration of our structure plans, we delved deeper into each other’s design perspectives, enhancing both our individual and collective design perspectives.
Communication and Interactions
Although practicalities and logistics often prevented us from working together in a shared space, we adopted a “divide and work” approach that afforded each of us the flexibility to contribute at our own pace. Leveraging each other’s strengths and offering constructive feedback throughout, we created a supportive team environment. Informal studio interactions played a vital role as well, helping us get to know each other on a more personal level. Although we missed the opportunity to go on a field trip together, we viewed this as a positive outcome: each of us experienced the area from a unique perspective, which ultimately lead us to our distinct guiding themes.
Interim Presentations
Receiving positive feedback on our structure plan during the interim presentations was encouraging. Through these presentations, we sharpened our skills not only in delivering our individual work but also in presenting cohesively as a group. Observing other groups’ approaches to analysis and mapping further broadened our understanding, inspiring us to refine our own methodologies.
Overall, the process was one of mutual learning, and growth, which will undoubtedly inform our future projects.
REFERENCES
Literature References
Berger, Alan. Drosscape: Wasting Land in Urban America. First paperback edition. New York: Princeton Architectural Press, 2006.
Bergevoet, Tom, Maarten van Tuijl, Auke van den Berg, Vivien Reid, and Clare Wilkinson. The Flexible City: Sustainable Solutions for a Europe in Transition. Rotterdam: nai010 publishers, 2016.
Burg, L. van den, ed. Urban Analysis Guidebook: Typomorphology. Delft: TU Delft, Faculty of architecture, 2004.
Dramstad, Wenche. Landscape Ecology Principles in Landscape Architecture and LandUse Planning. 1st ed. Washington, D. C: Island Press, 1996.
Feddes, Fred. A Millennium of Amsterdam: Spatial History of a Marvellous City. Bussum: Thoth publ, 2012.
Maria Rinaldi, Bianca, and Puay Yok Tan, eds. Urban Landscapes in High-Density Cities: Parks, Streetscapes, Ecosystems. Basel: Birkhäuser, 2019.
Martin, Leslie. “The Grid as Generator.” Architectural Research Quarterly 4, no. 4 (December 2000): 309–22. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1359135500000403. Meyer, Hans. Urbanism: Fundamentals and Prospects. Amsterdam: Boom Uitgevers, 2021.
Sim, David, and Jan Gehl. Soft City: Building Density for Everyday Life. Washington ; Covelo ; London: Island Press, 2019.
Waldheim, Charles. Landscape as Urbanism: A General Theory. Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 2016.
Data and Web References
https://maps.amsterdam.nl/
https://www.topotijdreis.nl/
https://www.pdok.nl/
https://www.openstreetmap.org
https://www.amsterdam.nl/omgevingsvisie https://english.deltaprogramma.nl/ https://zuidas.nl/ https://www.amsterdam.nl/
Others References
https://urbanresearchtable.com/urban-plugin-a-public-space-making-and-sharingsystem/
Haochen, Minzhi, and Zhenfang, “Sustainable Exploration of ‘Plug-In Design’ in Public Space of Old City in Guangzhou.”
https://www.behance.net/gallery/104872205/New-Urbanism-Urban-Acupuncture https://shmadesigns.com/knowledge/research/green-infrastructure-typology/ https://www.gsd.harvard.edu/publication/ephemeral-urbanism-does-permanencematter/
https://www.urhahn.com/en/philosophy-of-the-spontaneous-city/
https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Design Perspective: Interventions (Sample Zone)
“In the landscapes within, we found our way forward.”
Toward a new society, new ways of being, and new geographies in a shifting time...
Ritika Singhal