From a stony desert to a lively green city park, the radical transformation of the Bogaardplein is the long-awaited kick-off for the further development of the Rijswijk city centre In De Bogaard. Structural greening is the starting point for optimising the liveability and resilience of the city. By interweaving as much nature as possible with the functional aspects of the city park as a social hub, a place to meet, relax, play and practice sports, sustainable objectives for the city will also be achieved. These include climate adaptation – the ability to resist heat stress and collect rainwater – and the promotion of biodiversity, health and well-being.

Oasis in the city

The new city park will be situated on top of the existing parking garage and will have a sloping surface with a great diversity of greenery, from large trees and shrubs to flowering plants and grasses. Attractive paved circulation areas meander around it, connecting the various functions of the park. This creates a traffic space for cyclists and pedestrians like an oxygen-rich oasis, with constantly changing views. On the way to the shopping area, or crossing the city park by bike, this new city landscape invites you to take a deep breath and enjoy a moment of pure greenery. The city park is also a destination in itself, an attractive retreat for young and old, for healthy exercise and daily relaxation.

A loop-shaped route runs through the park, with various sports and games facilities, areas for picnicking, sunbathing and taking in the shade. There will be a spacious terrace with an amphitheatre and a new water element where children can play safely on hot days while their supervisors relax on a bench. Rijswijk will also have a weekly organic market in this new city park, connecting the old functionality of the Bogaardplein and its adjacent shopping area with the city’s healthy, green future strategy.

A contemporary city park

By redefining the existing character of the place and bringing more greenery into the centre of Rijswijk, the city park responds to contemporary issues of climate adaptation, biodiversity and health and well-being for the future.

The park’s current functions will be revitalised, while new activities will also find their place in the city park. The existing water basin will be replaced by a theatre of fountains. In winter, the water element can make way for a paved flexible central square space for other activities and events, such as an ice rink or a Christmas market.

Data

Landscape Architecture:Delva

Project Location: Rijswijk, The Netherlands

Design year:2017

Year Built: 2021

Togheter with: Gemeente Rijswijk, Schadenberg Groep, Donker Groep, Grijsen Park & Straatdesign

Photos: Sebastian van Damme