This development strategy for the Stadshavens or harbour basins in Rotterdam steps off from one of the largest port transformations in Europe. These harbours are the last within Rotterdam's highway 'diamond' where large-scale port activities still take place. They can slowly transform into an area where city and port can interweave to the advantage of both. The industries now on site can be relocated to the second Maasvlakte scheduled to be constructed in the North Sea. As the transformation will not take place at a single blow, there will be no question of a tabula rasa. The area will have to be developed gradually, like a chessboard with several 'playing fields'.

The plan presents a framework of spatial rules as a firm underlay for the area. These rules are intended to fix the existing qualities on site and secure a high quality for the future public space. They give the designers maximum freedom as well as ensuring that the playing fields can be developed flexibly in phases. Armed with this form of planning, the area can be transformed over a period of at least 50 years without the process being unduly slowed down by changes in the economy and local government.

The east side of Waalhaven is perfectly situated to receive powerful infrastructure and combine the existing qualities of Rotterdam South with those of the harbour. The infrastructure anchors the area in the urban network and is the stepping-off point for the transformation. The new network of links not only accesses the former docklands, it gives a new lease of life to the city as it stands.

Place of education: TU Delft
Specialization: Urban design
Tutors: Louisa Calabrese, Daan Zandbelt, Henco Bekkering