Let the water Flow

Abstract

This research explores the design of a future-proof building for Groningen, focusing on energy efficiency and climate adaptation. Given the rising sea levels and climate changes, the study investigates urban, local, building, and detail scales to develop sustainable design strategies that will later be implemented into an architectural design. Historical and present-day challenges of water management in the Groningen area are examined, leading to an urban concept on how to make the Groningen Reitdiep area future resilient.

The study outlines three future urban scenarios: living on mounds, adapting existing arable farming on terps, and utilizing mixed farming in a dike landscape. Each scenario addresses infrastructure, energy systems, and building typologies. Key strategies include dry and wet floodproofing, passive solar design, and integrating wind and water for energy generation. The research concludes with guidelines for designing resilient buildings in flood-prone areas, emphasizing the importance of combining traditional knowledge with modern sustainable practices to create liveable environments for future generations. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that future inhabitants of Groningen can coexist with rising water levels.

The final design will be created within one future urban scenario, focusing on a cultural community centre that is water resilient even within 100 years from now in 2124.