Keynote: What would nature do?

In an era of unprecedented environmental challenges, reconnecting cities with their natural systems is no longer optional—it is essential. Over the past decade, our landscape office in the Netherlands has redefined the role of nature within urban environments. By applying Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) across all scales—from strategic frameworks to project-level details—we develop resilient, adaptive designs that enable cities to coexist harmoniously with their natural surroundings.

Our studio’s multi-scalar approach aligns programmatic urban goals with ecological principles, as demonstrated in key projects across Europe.

Strategic Green Plan Leuven: At a large scale, Leuven prioritizes its natural geomorphology as the foundation for its future. A blue-green framework restores flood-prone areas and fosters biodiversity, stitching together ecological corridors. Nature becomes a structural base—shaping urban spaces to enhance resilience, water management, and recreation. Leuven demonstrates how large-scale ecological systems can guide sustainable urban development.

Nature-Based City of Almere: Almere envisions urban densification rooted in natural systems. Its city center transforms into a vibrant, green core where water, forests, and parks form an integrated green-blue foundation. By intertwining growth with nature, Almere redefines urban living—balancing ecological integrity, livability, and innovation.

New Space, Groningen: At the city scale, Groningen reimagines streets as shared, multi-dimensional public spaces. Streets integrate ten dimensions—from ecology and safety to social interaction—transforming traditional infrastructure into dynamic ecosystems. Green infrastructure supports biodiversity, community engagement, and urban resilience.

By asking, “What Would Nature Do?”, we challenge conventional urban development and advocate for cities that function as living, breathing ecosystems. Across all our projects, NbS ensure that biodiversity and resilience are embedded at every scale. These strategies amplify urban networks, supporting both nature and human well-being.

Our work proves that a Nature-Based City is not a distant ideal but a practical, scalable reality. By embracing nature as a guiding principle, cities can evolve into adaptive, livable ecosystems where people and the environment thrive together.