Het Jach; from grey to green city square

Het Jach was a stony square in the center of Culemborg. Cars dominated the scene, leaving little space for a pleasant stay. 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 distinctive design was created.

In the design, the site is redesigned as a green square where the car is a guest. All sightlines run ‘over the greenery,’ and as a pedestrian, cyclist, and motorist, you move through the green. The ‘de-paving’ of the square creates a space that heats up less on hot days, allows sufficient room for rainwater to seep into the ground, provides space for animals and plants, and invites people of all ages to spend time in a nature-rich environment.

Waardenburg Ecology combines its expertise in sustainability, ecology, and landscape design in the design for the square. For instance, various gradients are created with layered planting structures that are interesting for animals, plants, and people alike. A nice example of repurposing is the millstone, which is being transformed into an insect hotel.
Through the greening, respect for sightlines, and the round forms in the design, the historical elements are better showcased. The public space becomes the connecting element amidst the variety of architectural styles surrounding the square.