The Rijnmond-Drechtsteden region faces major challenges regarding water safety. The current Delta strategy is sustainable until around 2070—even under an extreme climate scenario. But what happens after that? With rising sea levels, increased river discharge, land subsidence, and climate change, the spatial resilience of the region is under pressure. This also raises questions about the future of the port and its economy. That’s why the IABR Atelier Delta Rijnmond-Drechtsteden 2100 is being launched, under the direction of atelier masters Dirk Sijmons and Lodewijk van Nieuwenhuijze. The design research is carried out by De Urbanisten, H+N+S Landscape Architects, and PosadMaxwan. Jelmer Teunissen has been appointed as junior designer and generational challenger to help develop long-term perspectives for the region.
This design research explores alternatives to the current system—such as nature-based solutions, closed sea inlets, or even retreat from certain areas. By exploring now which choices are possible and desirable, future generations can build on a foundation that is both flexible and future-proof. The urgency is high: this research helps ensure timely action if the current strategy is no longer sufficient.