Waterpleinen

Waterpleinen are urban public spaces designed to manage rainwater by acting as temporary storage or infiltration basins. They are intentionally integrated into streets, squares, or parks to combine flood risk reduction with public space, recreation, and biodiversity. The concept is rooted in Dutch approaches to water management and climate adaptation and has been applied in other urban contexts as well.

Design features typically include permeable paving, shallow water basins or troughs, overflow channels, and vegetation strips. The space may function as a plaza or square in dry conditions and as a controlled water body during heavier rainfall, with depths kept safe and visible for the public. Some installations reuse captured water for irrigation or graywater where permissible.

Use and benefits: Waterpleinen reduce peak runoff, help protect surrounding areas from flooding, and recharge groundwater. They can contribute to urban cooling through water and greenery and provide recreational and aesthetic value. The spaces also create opportunities for education about water management and climate resilience.

Planning and safety: Implementation requires coordination with the municipal drainage system, water authority, and zoning policies. Design considerations include safety for all ages, accessibility, maintenance, and seasonal variability. Public engagement is often used to determine acceptable depth, programming, and activities during dry periods.

Examples and adoption: The waterplein concept forms part of the Netherlands’ broader water management and urban design strategies, including Room for the River and climate adaptation programs. It has been implemented in several Dutch municipalities and informs international projects influenced by Dutch water design principles.