Research and Design of Urban Landscapes: The Delft Approach

Abstract

In this essay, the Delft Approach refers to a particular landscape architecture approach to understand and design urban landscapes, which is developed in the Faculty of Architecture and Built Environment at Delft University of Technology (the Netherlands) since 1947 (Fig. 1-2). The Delft approach focusses on urban landscapes as a scale continuum, employs design research and research through design as important teaching and research strategies, and regards mapping and drawing as important tools for thinking. The typical Dutch geographic context and spatial planning traditions are the foundation for this approach. As head of research of Landscape Architecture in the Faculty of Architecture and Built Environment at Delft University of Technology (the Netherlands), Dr. Nijhuis has expertise in landscape-based urbanism, GIS applications and visual landscape research. He was invited to participate in the 2019 International Landscape Architecture Symposium held at Beijing Forestry University. Landscape Architecture Journal is honored to invite him to this inclusive interview to introduce the background and principles of this approach, and illustrate the application of this method with projects.