Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Many Dutch cities lack easily available public green spaces, in Haarlem green spaces in the city center are well hidden and restricted by opening hours. This thesis will look into the creation of a pocket park for Koepelplein in Haarlem as public green space.
The project is an example of how small scale projects, in leftover areas, can add to the green infrastructure in the city.
The thesis is guided by the following research question: How can the design of Koepelplein as pocket park in the historical city center of Haarlem contribute to a more publically available green structure for the neighborhood which can cool down the city, increase the mental and physical wellbeing of inhabitants, and incorporate the local character and heritage in the design?
The final design for Koepelplein created in this thesis shows how a connection to local heritage can be made through using similar materials and form language. The design also shows that the site can be used as restorative space if it is connected to other pedestrian friendly spaces, if it contains green and and blue spaces, and if both places for rest and social activity are supported. Finally
it shows that the addition of big vegetation structures such as trees have a positive effect on cooling down the site, making it a more comfortable space to be used on hot summer days.