Domein aan de Dommel - Belgium

With the design of Domein aan de Dommel, we bring to life the vision driven by nature and water. This development has led to addressing key ecological and water-related challenges in the Dommelvallei. It results in a plan in which we take an integrated approach to pressing social issues, such as creating a dynamic water storage landscape, nature-oriented development and creating living space for people and animals. All with the soil, water and cultural landscape as a starting point.

Domein aan de Dommel is an outstanding example of integrated thinking. This is where the ambitions of climate, nature and urban planning come together harmoniously.
– Rex van Beijsterveld

Water as a carrier

The Dommel is the backbone of our design. This natural waterway is celebrated not only for its unique quality to live and stay by, but also for its ecological importance and aesthetic value. Careful design allows the Dommel to penetrate further into the area. The domain thus becomes part of a working system in the Dommelvallei that extends from the river course via a tree-lined zone to a park-like setting – the Dommelpark – a climate buffer for the Dommel and its surroundings accessible to residents and users.

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This project uniquely combines urban planning innovation, landscape integration and respect for historical heritage.
– Steven Delva

delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap 16 Guiding principles 03 copy
delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap 02

Historic ensemble and contemporary additions

The urban design elements of Domein aan de Dommel have been carefully designed to honour the historical values of the site, while also allowing for modern additions. The main building, an iconic landmark, will be revived and act as the heart of the community, where old and new merge.

Four unique sub-areas

Each subarea has its own identity, but together it forms a coherent unit. From the imposing main building to the serene Meander homes – each element was designed with respect for the existing landscape combined with the needs of the current and new residents.

delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap 15
Each subarea has its own identity, but together it forms a coherent unit.
delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap 07

A caring community

The area development focuses on connecting buildings, landscape, people and environment, and adding new values. The ideas of the new residential community Kentalis form the basis for a new, inclusive and diverse community here. People live, care, learn and work, relax and play here, focusing on the core values of caring, self-sufficiency and innovation. Residents keep space for their familiar activities, such as walks around the grounds, to make them feel at home.

Connections and buffer zones

The design includes a network of functional and appropriately designed paths and routes, with special attention to slow traffic participants. Buffer zones play a key role in protecting privacy and promoting interaction between different users of the site.

delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap 11

delva landscape architecture urbanism steven amsterdam antwerpen biodiversiteit dommel sint michielsgestel kentalis klimaatadaptatie rivier rivierlandschap waterlandschap

Unique living environment in harmony with nature

The newly created waterscape along the Dommel river offers a unique residential environment, enriched with accommodation and recreational facilities, and also provides essential water storage within the area. This residential development is accompanied by the promotion of natural values, creating a harmonious relationship between people and nature.

Connecting current challenges and taking them on with an integrated approach, Domein aan de Dommel proves that it can be done.
– Steven Delva

Domein aan de Dommel is an example of how modern urban planning and landscape architecture can combine to create a liveable, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Location
Sint-Michielsgestel
Status
In development
Client
BPD
Together with
Bierman Henket, BOEi