Lagoonbased

Lagoonbased is a planning and design concept that places a lagoon at the center of a landscape, architecture, or urban development. The term is used to describe projects that integrate lagoon hydrology, ecology, and social use, treating the lagoon as a living system rather than a mere scenic backdrop. While definitions vary by region, lagoonbased design generally aims to balance flood management, habitat restoration, water quality, and public access.

Core elements include restoration or preservation of lagoon hydrology, flood storage capacity, and tidal exchange; wetland and mangrove habitats; water quality management; and built form such as boardwalks, floating platforms, and waterfront facilities that respond to tidal and storm conditions. Designs often emphasize nature-based solutions, low-energy mobility, and adaptive management to cope with changing environmental conditions.

Applications span urban waterfront renewal, coastal conservation zones, resort and campus developments, and community parks. Lagoonbased projects typically involve multi-stakeholder collaboration among city planners, ecologists, engineers, and local communities, and may combine ecological restoration with recreational and cultural programming.

Benefits commonly cited include enhanced flood resilience, increased biodiversity, and improved recreational and economic value through ecotourism or distinctive waterfront experiences. Challenges can include water quality control, management of salinity and sediments, ongoing maintenance, financing, and navigating regulatory and stakeholder processes. Because lagoons are dynamic systems, long-term monitoring and flexible planning are essential components of lagoonbased projects.

Origin and usage of the term reflect modern planning discourse, with variations in interpretation across regions. Related concepts include water-sensitive urban design and blue-green infrastructure.