The plan revolves around the existing sport fields in the middle of the park. The pitches will be lined with trees, creating green rooms. Closer to the river the tree lines give way to a loose array of park trees. Along the two outer edges perpendicular to the river, the park is framed by a triple row of maples. The park‘s central area is based on the original parcel pattern of meadows bounded by narrow ditches. Closer to the river the parcel pattern gives way to a loose pattern of islands surrounded by bodies of water. The result is an unusual park with a natural feel. In the park‘s centre there is a playing area on a loosely-shaped island. Each island has a single kind of ornamental grass, with its own height and colour. The islands are connected by a loose path pattern. Circular areas along the paths allow people to rest on an informal array of seats. Some of these areas are hidden amid the grass, while others bordering the water are perfect for angling. All the paths in the park are made of the same materials, and the same goes for the litter-bins, the seats and the lights. Everything has a restrained look that fits the rural surroundings.
2009-2012
location: Katwijk, The Netherlands
client: INBO Amsterdam
in collaboration with: INBO Amsterdam; Jacqueline van der Kloet
photography: Ricky Rijkenberg and LOOSvanVLIET
area: 20 ha