Zaanstad’s landscape is shaped by a complex interplay of infrastructure and nature. Historic waterways, railways, highways, and urban expansions have fragmented the area, while several protected Natura 2000 zones serve as vital ecological nodes. This division has weakened ecological connectivity and resilience, prompting a design approach that transforms the borders into functional zones. By integrating natural filtration systems and multifunctional spaces, the project seeks to restore environmental balance while fostering recreational and residential opportunities within the polder.
Zaanstad is shaped by a dense network of infrastructural elements, from age-old rivers and waterways that divide the landscape to the more recent railways, highways, major roads, and urban expansions. Simultaneously, the region contains several protected natural areas, four of which fall under Natura 2000 regulations. This interplay between infrastructure and conservation has led to a fragmented landscape, limiting ecological connectivity and resilience. When thinking about a more resilient future for Zaanstad these factors have to be addressed.
Our analysis revealed that the borders of the Zaan Polder create sharp separations, fragmenting natural areas and reducing their ecological effectiveness. Additionally, the Zaan region is located just north of the Port of Amsterdam and east of the Tata Steel factories, allowing polluted air to flow freely into the polder, affecting its vegetation.
To address these challenges, this design incorporates peaty forests, reeds and march plants as a natural solution to capture excess nutrients from both the air and soil, locking them within biomass. By strategically transforming the borders into natural filtration zones, we create a protective buffer that enhances the resilience of the inner polder area.
The border zone of the Zaan Polder has been carefully structured into distinct zones, each serving as both a natural filter and a functional space. While the peaty forests continue to absorb pollutants and enhance biodiversity, additional layers of functionality enrich the landscape, making it more accessible and dynamic.
These zones incorporate recreational spaces, residential areas, camping grounds, allotments, and fishing spots, creating a harmonious blend of ecological restoration and human interaction. By merging environmental sustainability with diverse land uses, this design ensures that the polder remains both protected and productive, fostering a resilient and engaging living environment.
