The design study seeks a new orientation for Almere. Until now, the city seems to have drawn its strength from the fact that it isn't a city at all. Given the future population advance from 100,000 now to 250,000 in 2015 this dubious position emerges as a weakness. The quality of space with a horizon is put under enormous pressure by this population growth. In the study, the main issue is whether the landscape can help guide the design and the identity of the city. Octopus's Garden is a quest for a spirit slumbering deep somewhere in the memory of Almere, that for reasons unknown has stayed hidden: namely, a longing for the water.

The economic and social basis for a definitively open Markermeer (the inland sea north of Almere) lies in an alliance between drinking water production for the central Netherlands, nature development, leisure and urbanization. Markermeer is given an important part to play in the provision of drinking water in the Netherlands. Optimizing the quality of the water for the benefit of this new function will lead to a new humanized landscape, one guaranteeing the continued growth of current natural and recreational values. The urban development can then profit from this 'Blue Heart'. As a result, Almere's orientation shifts towards Markermeer.

In fleshing out this concept, the emphasis is on transforming Almere from a clay-based to a water-based city. The scheme follows three lines that relate directly to the phases of development of the new cultural landscape. First, the Hoge Vaart, the channel running through Almere, strings together the peripheral lakes (Randmeren), Almere itself and Almeerse Gat. Next, the Markerkant area generates a new tensionality between the current Central Station in Almere-Stad and a new waterside regional centre plus marina. Finally, the primary dike (the 'winter-dike') provides a broad interface between Almere and the water landscape.

In the new orientation, the civil engineering works, the system of dikes, dams, sluices, work islands and sludge depots are decisive for the design and identity of Almere. There is a scenic drive that proceeds atop and below the sea wall. With a permanent summer-city (Markereinde) perching high up at the sluices. You can take the boat to Mosselplaat. Or park by the ferry, the windscreen wipers on, listening to Mahler's Third....

Place of education: Amsterdam
Specialization: urban design
Tutors: Gert Urhahn, Leo Pols & Arie van Rangelrooy