Transforming an outdoor space into a climate-resilient community space

Key Learnings

About the Region

Climate Threats

Climate change is already affecting Amsterdam with heavy rains and sea level rise, causing flooding, and extreme temperatures, leading to droughts and tropical nights with temperatures above 25°C. Due to its high building density with large areas sealed, heavy rains can cause severe flooding, because the water cannot naturally percolate into the ground. In 1953, a flood in the Netherlands almost killed 2,000, and in response, Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands created an advanced flood control system over the past five decades. As 26% of the country lies below sea level, meaning large parts lie in flood-prone areas. Despite existing measures, meteorologists from Utrecht University warn that Amsterdam must increase its investment in flood prevention.

Climate-proof courtyards reduce the flood risk and cool the neighbourhood

In the Nieuw-West district of Amsterdam, a homeowners’ association decided to transform a fully paved courtyard into a climate-resilient meeting place. Working with city authorities, the Dutch Water Authorities, experts, and local residents, they created a green oasis that helps lower neighbourhood temperatures and reduce flood risk by replacing pavement with permeable, planted surfaces. The courtyard, partly paved, suffered from heat stress, poor drainage and an increased risk of flooding during heavy rains, making it an unpleasant place to spend time and discouraging social interaction in the neighbourhood.

Three members of the owner association established contact with the City of Amsterdam, reaching out via e-mail to the network organisation (Amsterdam Weerproof) and asking for help. They visited a neighbourhood event and found out more about free advice and financial aid.

After several meetings, the members decided to submit a plan to the Amstel Gooi and Vecht Water Authority in order to secure partial funding. The Green and Water Subsidy is a funding scheme that supports resident initiatives wanting to green their living environment and adapt their neighbourhoods to climate change.

After the water authority approved their grant application, the owner association redeveloped the courtyard by engaging the members to remove the paving and plant grass, shrubs and trees.

A hired local expert provided guidance throughout the de-paving and planting activities, ensuring that the redesign supported effective climate change adaptation. Water infiltration areas collect the water during heavy rain and let it gradually seep into the soil, improving the microclimate during hot periods and keeping the soil moist for the plants to thrive.

Figure 1: Local residents de-paving the courtyard. Image Credit: Amsterdam Weerproof.

Two Intermediate Bulk Containers collect a large amount of rainwater and provide the garden with water on dry days. Residents can relax under the planted trees during hot days.

Figure 2: Intermediate Bulk Containers at the courtyard. Image Credit: Amsterdam Weerproof.

The project team selected drought- and heat-resistant plants, providing habitat for birds, bees and butterflies. This improves the living environment for the residents and biodiversity in the neighbourhood.

Figure 3: Several plants increase biodiversity at the courtyard and in the neighbourhood. Image Credit: Amsterdam Weerproof.

Figure 4: Drought resistant plants in the garden. Image Credit: Anne Gehring.

In addition to transforming the courtyard, the municipality, at the residents’ request, created façade gardens along the outside of the homes. Along with enlarged tree pits to form small gardens beneath the trees.

Figure 5: Water infiltration areas below a window reduces collects water and reduces the heat on hot days. Image Credit: Amsterdam Weerproof.

Collaboration improves climate adaptation

By working together, the residents created a climate-adapted living environment. The collaboration between the Homeowners Association, the Water Authorities, the city and the local residents resulted in effective climate change adaptation benefitting the entire neighbourhood. The measures reduce the heat in the area, lower the risk of flooding, and create a new meeting point where residents can enjoy the outdoor space.

We felt it was important that the collective supported this initiative. We invested a lot in making the urgency and importance of a climate-adaptive garden clear. Visualising the plan and taking a step-by-step approach also helped in this process.

 Anne Gehring

Summary

Further Information

Contact