Waelpolder, 's-Gravenzande

Commissioned by Weboma and in collaboration with Starling Structures

Field 4 is the last building field to be released within the Waelpolder expansion plan in 's-Gravenzande. The surrounding fields have now been filled in, resulting in the development of a rich and diverse residential area in recent years, with neighborhoods each with its own unique housing typology, architecture, and spatial character. Within this complex, Field 4 occupies a striking position: precisely between two of the neighborhood's defining lines.

On the east side lies the Fluwijn district access road, while on the other sides, a green space winds through the area. It is precisely at this point that the Ecozone – the ecological and landscape backbone of Waelpolder – makes a clear bend. As a result, Field 4 borders this nature zone on two sides, and the urban edge of the neighborhood on only one side. This location offers a unique starting point: a neighborhood that simultaneously embraces the neighborhood and is deeply intertwined with the surrounding landscape.

Our plan, with the working title "Môh!", aligns with the social and landscape identity of Westland: greeting each other, meeting, and creating space for connection. Together with Starling Structures, we developed a study for a neighborhood where quality of life, landscape integration, and social interaction are central.

Living in Cohesion

The program includes 47 affordable owner-occupied homes (53–80 m²) in various typologies and 21 spacious terraced houses (87–146 m²) for active people aged 55 and over. By deliberately staying below the maximum building height, the volumes blend seamlessly with the existing neighborhood, creating a peaceful, human scale.

Two parking courtyards, bordered by greenery and a deck, form the functional heart of the neighborhood. They offer ample parking, keep the residential streets quiet, and create a car-free environment where playing, walking, and socializing are central.

Urban and landscape architecture

The unique double-sided location of the development site translates into a neighborhood with two carefully crafted faces.

Along the Fluwijn River, the plan features urban architecture inspired by Adriaan Dessing's Fata Morgana, a beautiful Westland plan in the Amsterdam School style. The expressive brickwork, refined detailing, and a distinctive brick gate bring character and urban dynamism. This gate serves as both the symbolic entrance to the neighborhood and the starting point of the central thoroughfare.

Sculptural terraced houses with spacious outdoor spaces, green roofs, and a clear landscape orientation are situated on the sides along the Ecozone.

The roof shapes, hedges, and materials subtly reference the Westland greenhouse silhouette and connect the plan with the natural surroundings.

A layered plan with space for socializing

The gently undulating landscape complements the creek and dune pattern that characterizes the Ecozone. Within this relief, the homes are grouped around two parking courtyards, connected by a central, informal route. This passage forms the social backbone of the plan: a winding path with gentle steps, a small amphitheater, and spaces for spontaneous relaxation, connecting the Fluwijn with the Ecozone.

The decks above the parking courtyards provide access to the upper-floor apartments and terraced houses. Wide galleries – suitable for a bench or planting – create an atmosphere reminiscent of a Delft sidewalk: public and social, yet maintaining privacy.

A communal greenhouse on the deck is a nod to the tradition of greenhouse horticulture and provides space for shared activities. Furthermore, a natural playground is located on the waterfront in one of the most beautiful spots of the plan.

Sustainable and Future-Proof

The design builds on the ecological richness of the Ecozone. Green roofs, intensive planting, nesting and bat boxes, and semi-open paving contribute to biodiversity and climate adaptation. Rainwater is buffered through green roofs and integrated planters, while large trees create shade and regulate the outdoor temperature.

Bicycle parking is provided at ground level in easily accessible storage areas, making sustainable mobility a natural part of daily life.