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Capelle aan den IJssel, The Netherlands

The 70s built outdoor swimming pool De Blinkert will be remembered fondly by Rotterdam metropolitan area residents. Therefore, within the area's transformation, the specific architectural identity, the pools, and several elements are reused. It formed the inspiration for a reconfigured landscape where continuous natural slopes are interweaved, layered, and framed by residential buildings.

All 180 configured parking spaces are hidden underneath the sloping landscape. Private terraces, residential, and collective entrances are embedded on different landscape levels to ensure social safety and social inclusion.

In the heart of the area, a sunken and playful (water) square is surrounded by a green grandstand and a large multiple-use framework. This urban space is multi-functional and can be used for recreation. Having such a centrally positioned place to play or work-out within a residential area enhances social interaction in the neighborhood, making it a safer place to live.

Integral design team: ECHO Urban Design, GROOSMAN architecten