Living Landscape: a centre for architecture

Located on the river floodplains of the IJssel, near Deventer (NL), a centre for architecture will be established, serving as a space for agriculture, research, and architectural design. The project embraces architecture as a slow process, prioritising reflection and the thoughtful integration of design with nature and context.

The project aims to create an architecture and practice rooted in our connection with nature and culture. It recognises architecture’s role in fostering meaningful relationships between people and their environment, acting as a mediator. The design reflects the understanding that architecture is deeply tied to the local landscape, both contributing to and drawing from the natural systems around it. Architecture is viewed as a response to the living landscape, not merely a theoretical endeavour.

The design is informed by a detailed study of the landscape’s vegetation, orientation, and morphology. Special attention was given to the type and age of the trees on site which have been meticulously mapped to ensure the design integrates and respects the natural environment. Part of the trees are used as the primary construction material, providing a sustainable and local solution to building. It incorporates multiple forms of agriculture, from the existing production forest and greenhouse to herbal and vegetable gardens. An orchard is planted in drier areas, while cows graze the floodplains to help maintain river flow. These agricultural practices support the centre’s research and activities, reinforcing its connection to the natural cycles of the landscape.

Visitors access the centre via an existing path through the production forest, entering an open space framed by a rammed earth wall that serves as a distinctive entrance. The buildings are organised around two courtyards. The public courtyard houses the centre’s facilities, including a dining room, shared kitchen, café-shop, library, and ateliers for various crafts. The ateliers overlook the river floodplain and offer space for outdoor activities.

The second, more private courtyard includes a greenhouse for horticultural experiments and food production. Residences for permanent staff are positioned around the site’s perimeter, while a separate building in the forest offers eight studios for temporary residents—researchers, designers, and employees.

The project exemplifies an architecture practice focused on a holistic design approach and serves as a long-term research process, emphasising slowness in architecture. It strives to take the necessary time to achieve a thoughtful, sustainable outcome in both design and execution.