Het Jach; from grey throughway to green and vibrant city square

For many years, Het Jach was a paved square in the centre of Culemborg. With cars dominating the area the square was predominantly a throughway to other parts of the city centre. The Municipality of Culemborg asked us to create a new design. In addition to functional and urban planning requirements, the primary reason for revamping the square was a desire for greening, aimed at addressing climate adaptation and biodiversity restoration. In consultation with local residents and business owners, an elegant, green, and characterful design was created.

The site has been redesigned as a green square where cars are welcome only as guests. Green dominates all sightlines and pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike move through the greenery. Reducing the area of paving and increasing the amount of greenery, creates a space that heats up less on hot days, as well as allowing rainwater to seep into the ground. The area now provides space for animals and plants, and invites people of all ages to spend time in a nature-rich environment.

The design for the square combines Waardenburg Ecology’s expertise in sustainability, ecology, and landscape design. Various gradients have been created through layered planting structures that are interesting for animals, plants, and people. A further example is the repurposing of the millstone, which has been transformed into an insect hotel.
Through the greening, respect for sightlines, and the rounded forms in the design, the historical features are showcased. The public space is now the connecting element amidst the variety of architectural styles surrounding the square.