Amsterdam faces a major challenge in terms of the transition of public space in the coming years. A transition driven by climate change, the switch to sustainable sources of energy, the increasing scarcity of raw materials, and the digitalization of society. In addition, the city is growing steadily and increasing in density. Infrastructure below ground is growing apace, but space is running out. If current methods of city and area development remain unchanged, the transition will stagnate. In new development schemes the traditional idea of thinking from above ground to below ground is a thing of the past. Prioritizing underground space and the multiple use of space, the design method introduced in this publication is geared to programming public areas in an integral manner. In this method, public and private parties work together from an early stage to reserve space below ground for a healthy living environment, for new energy systems, for solutions to problems caused by heat and precipitation, for the desired circularity, and for nature-inclusive design. This accumulation of measures contributes to green, attractive and high-quality public space that makes the city a fine place in which to live, work, relax, play and enjoy life.
Integral Design Method Public Space
A new way of working towards a future-proof city
Here you can follow our work around the Integral Design Method Public Space (IOOR). You can check the agenda for upcoming events and exhibitions, download the IOOR and BiodiverCITY publications, or view the contributions to the Venice and Seoul biennales in 2021. Under 'In-depth research' you can learn more about climate adaptation, circularity and soil biodiversity (BiodiverCITY).