Betaplein en Schelmenhofje – Heerlen
As the first implementation of the Spatial Economic Compass, Schelmenhof and Betaplein demonstrate how landscape can become the foundation of a vibrant, climate-resilient and culturally rich city centre. Two overlooked spaces in the historic centre are transformed into green places to meet and spend time, each with its own distinct character yet forming one recognisable whole. Together, they mark the first step towards a network of urban squares that brings renewed energy to Heerlen’s city centre.
From a place to pass through to a place to stay
Where these spaces once primarily served as routes through the city, they now create room to pause, meet and experience the history of Heerlen. Each square tells a story about the city and responds directly to its specific context.
At the same time, their strength lies in the connection between them. Together, they form the beginning of a network of squares and public spaces that adds a new layer to Heerlen. They connect the city centre to the surrounding landscape, make heritage and history tangible, and create space for everyday urban life.
In this way, Schelmenhof and Betaplein contribute to a city centre shaped not by a collection of individual projects, but by a network of distinctive and interconnected urban spaces.
Heritage and landscape as the starting point
The designs of the two courtyards are rooted in the story of each place. Schelmenhof reflects Heerlen’s medieval origins, on the edge of the former Landsfort Herle. The historic Schelmentoren once again becomes the spatial anchor of the site. Planting, shade and comfortable places to sit give the courtyard a green and sheltered character, making its history tangible once more.
Betaplein has a more contemporary character, with space for biodiversity, encounter and everyday use. Together, the two courtyards bring greenery, cooling and new places to stay to the heart of Heerlen.
“The courtyards show how landscape, heritage and everyday urban life can grow together..”
— Roy Straathof
A recognisable family of public spaces
The courtyards are not designed as isolated spaces, but as part of a wider network. A shared palette of materials, planting and spatial elements connects the two places and creates a recognisable identity. At the same time, each courtyard has its own atmosphere and character, shaped by its history, context and intended use.
Public space is approached not as a collection of separate interventions, but as a robust and adaptive system that can evolve with changing use, climate and time. With Schelmenhof and Betaplein, Heerlen takes a first concrete step towards a greener, more social and future-proof city centre.
- Location
- Heerlen
- Status
- DO
- Client
- Gemeente Heerlen
- Together with
- RA+ ingenieurs