In 2000, Dutch architectural critic and author Hans Ibelings wrote about Dutch Architecture, and Urbanism and its ability to design, create and manage an Artificial Landscape. After all, the Dutch landscape is mostly water and sand (most of it below sea level.) It is not a country rich in natural resources. Despite these limitations, the Dutch have managed to create a vibrant culture, and economy.

Perhaps most remarkably, Dutch Architecture and Urbanism contributed to creating Place – Place that managed and balanced the needs of a fragile landscape and ecology, while building urban landscapes that not only met the needs of a dense and growing populace, but created some extraordinary urban constructs (think Amsterdam, Delft and other canal cities). Even today, this tradition of integrating architecture, urbanism, engineering and landscape design helps shape the continued transformation of contemporary Dutch cities, like Rotterdam and its expansive harbor.

It is informative to learn lessons learned by the Dutch experience as we face the prospect of rising Sea Levels. More importantly, what are the new trends and strategies that contemporary Dutch Designers, urbanists, planners and engineers are engaging in as they too face rising sea levels. In particular we are interested to learn how new forms of public space, landscape and infrastructure can be integrated into a more resilient urban landscapes.

Our speakers:

Travis J.M. Bunt AIA
New York Director, One Architecture + Urbanism, New York and Rotterdam

Joan Fitzgerald, PhD
professor of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, Northeastern University

Wendi Goldsmith
Director, The Center for Urban Watershed Resilience

Jaap van der Salm
landscape architect, H+N+S Landschapsarchitecten

For those who qualify, 1.5 LU/HSWs are available.

Click Register to attend.