Navigating Transition

Abstract

This contribution examines the current challenges faced by 20th-century Dutch housing neighborhoods. Many of these neighborhoods were developed based on modern urbanistic and architectural principles, emphasizing functionality, simplicity, and the use of innovative construction materials. They were primarily established as social housing projects outside historical centers, aiming to provide residents with improved living conditions compared to existing overcrowded and substandard housing. Today, due to subsequent developments and expansions of cities, these neighborhoods often find themselves situated close to pivotal infrastructural connections and play crucial roles in urban transformation strategies. However, despite the Netherlands' reputation for innovative solutions, several Dutch cities encounter significant difficulties in integrating climate adaptation and energy transition measures with the socio-economic issues affecting residents of these urban areas.

The most prevalent challenges relate to socio-economic disparities and different cultural backgrounds of the inhabitants, leading to social exclusion, lower educational attainment, limited opportunities, unemployment, and higher levels of poverty. Additionally, the lack of affordable housing, rising property values and rents also pose gentrification risks, threatening established communities. Integration and diversity present further challenges, necessitating strategies for social cohesion and intercultural communication. Safety concerns and inadequate public spaces further impact residents' quality of life, requiring urban design approaches that strengthen social programs, affordable housing, and public services. Simultaneously, addressing these issues must align with climate adaptation and energy transition measures. Implementing heat-resilient urban design, such as green spaces and reflective surfaces, can mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and provide recreational areas. Sustainable water management techniques, including permeable pavements and retention ponds, reduce flood risks. Infrastructure upgrades, like retrofitting existing systems to meet new climate standards, are essential. Finally, community engagement is crucial; residents must be encouraged to participate in discussions to increase awareness and willingness to adopt climateresilient behaviors.

To comprehensively address these challenges, a holistic, design-driven research approach is necessary. Designers, local authorities, stakeholders, community organizations, and residents must collaborate to develop and implement strategies that enhance the overall quality of life in neighborhoods, fostering more equitable and sustainable communities. Following this line of thought, this contribution seeks to elaborate on the roles of design and designers by examining relevant projects, practices, and experiences in Dutch cities. The study leverages the principles of the New European Bauhaus (NEB), aiming to bring together sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusivity as fundamental pillars for promoting the green transition throughout Europe.