As a continuation of our pre-feasibility study on Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in Kigali, we have developed technical guidelines and showcased site-specific design applications in the Rebero-Karugira case study area.

These guidelines serve as practical, complementary tool for integrating NBS into urban planning in Kigali, and becomes a effective source that can be used by engineers, planners, developers, students or local communities to explore a range of possible measures.

We see significant potential to embed NBS within Kigali’s existing urban fabric. A standout example is the integrated constructed drain, which has great potential to reduce flow velocity, serving as both a space for vegetation and a footpath. This not only improves accessibility but also maximizes the use of available space.

Want to learn more about the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions in Kigali? The project can be viewed here: https://lnkd.in/eBXiAP4s

Commissioned by The World Bank, many thanks for the pleasant cooperation with the client team Duru Oksuz, Douglas Macfarlane, Esther. B Mutamba, and in cooperation with Deltares, Begoña Arellano Jaimerena, Nanco Dolman, and SHER Ingénieurs-Conseils, William Mudahemuka, Jean Ngendahayo

As part of the ”Kennismiddag ontwerpend onderzoek Brabant”, Anne Loes Nillesen presented the design research ‘Sea Clay Area’. In this study, we explore various possible development directions for the North-Brabant area at the transition between the Delta and the High Sandy Soils. Based on three ‘basic approaches’ from the water and soil system (controllability, robustness and adapting land use), we explore the linking opportunities with other spatial transition tasks.

Bringing back a robust stream and creek landscape seems to offer many opportunities for water and soil, as well as for the spatial challenges. The question is how to initiate such a transition. The acquisition of land (step by step) over time for such a robust system requires a large investment and is not necessarily in line with the design of area processes.

The project can be viewed here: https://lnkd.in/e_gcvRPC

With many thanks for the pleasant cooperation with the client team Bart van der Westen, Jard van der Lugt and Maartje Thijssen, Patrick de Rooij, Marty Braat, Geert Thyssen, Laurens van Asten, Pieter van Cappelle, Stefan Laro, Hans van Engen, Sarie Buijze and Bart Jansen. And the inspiration of the other area elaborations for the Green Forest Bram Willemse, Seam of Brabant Gepke Heun and River Clay Area Marit Schavemaker

Global developments pressure international orientated regions– such as the Rotterdam The Hague Metropolitan Region (MRDH). Geopolitical instability, climate change, labour shortages, and growing inequality pose challenges to the region’s long-term earning capacity and social cohesion.

Commissioned by the Metropoolregio Rotterdam Den Haag (MRDH) and in collaboration with Birch Consultants, we explored how the region can strengthen its economic profile and its resilience towards 2050. Based on expert consultation and the CPB scenarios, we identified key trends and challenges and defined building blocks for a renewed economic vision.

The study supports decision making regarding labour market, innovation, spatial development, and investment — laying the groundwork for a shared long-term agenda. This supports municipalities in navigating uncertainty while shaping a strong and recognizable economic profile for the future.

Dutch Water Envoy Meike van Ginneken launched our ‘Water as Leverage Sponge Garden’ pilot project in Nakuru. Defacto urbanism designed the sponge garden for the Nakuru water and sanitation Services company NAWASSCO with support of Vei, RVO and the county government of Nakuru.

The transformation of the car park to a sponge garden focuses on capturing and reusing rainwater, while providing a (partly public) green garden space. We are looking forward to soon be able to visit the garden!

Meike van Ginneken Myrko Webers Sandra Schoof Monica Velasco B. Joy Chege, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kenya | UN-Habitat Urban Lab UN-Habitat (United Nations Human Settlements Programme)

Learn more about the project here!