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News · September 30, 2025
Dordrecht’s new urban biotope
We are shaping the future of Dordrecht with the launch of a vibrant new green neighbourhood! Nestled within the ‘Dordts Geluk’ housing development on Spuiboulevard, this urban biotope introduces greenery and ecological diversity while shaping a low-traffic, welcoming neighbourhood just steps from the lively city centre. Designed in collaboration with Waaijer Projectrealisatie, Trebbe, FARO, Juli Ontwerp, BureauVanEig, and Movares, this development of 142 apartments sets the stage for a healthy, sustainable way of living in a natural context.
Urban integration and nature-inclusivity
Our design weaves natural systems through the neighbourhood, from lush green strips and wet bioswales to rain gardens that provide valuable habitats for a variety of flora and fauna. Herb-rich plantings will soften level changes and terraces with play elements to invite residents of all ages to gather, interact, and enjoy these heterogeneous outdoor spaces. This layered design shapes a resilient, inclusive neighbourhood where urban liveliness and ecological richness go hand in hand.
“As an urban biotope, this development adds life to the transition of the Spuiboulevard and brings new identity to the area.”
– Suzanne in ‘t Veld, Associate
Climate-responsive and water-sensitive design
This neighbourhood is designed as a living system that responds intelligently to climate challenges while nurturing biodiversity. Green roofs with built-in water buffering, together with infiltration crates and rain gardens in the courtyards, retain and store rainwater. The heat island effect is mitigated through planted facades, light materials, generous tree planting, and shaded overhangs, creating cooler and more comfortable outdoor spaces. With over 80% of the site dedicated to high-quality green and blue infrastructure—ranging from rain gardens and living walls to herb-rich planting—the design delivers a resilient and sustainable urban landscape.
A layered water system with smart storage and natural infiltration across streets, gardens, and roofs, turning rainwater into a shared resource
The nature-inclusive design with green roofs, living walls, rain gardens, and herb-rich planting to support diverse flora and fauna
Together with the municipality and stakeholders, we look forward to shaping Spuiboulevard into a vibrant, green, and inclusive urban landscape.
Urban biotopes for resilient cities
We believe a healthy city is inseparable from nature. That’s why we research and integrate urban biotopes in our projects, creating environments where nature can thrive with minimal intervention. This approach transforms cities into vibrant ecosystems for people, plants, and animals alike. By fostering respect and responsibility for our natural surroundings, we aim to safeguard biodiversity, ensuring a richer, healthier environment for current and future generations.
