The Faculty of Environmental Design (EVDS) celebrates the excellence and creativity of its students in a new exhibition, Sustainability in the City, opening in the Kasian Gallery on Apr 2, 2014. The exhibition features the results of several field studies carried out in block week courses in the Netherlands over the last four years.
While conducting their research, students explored the successful results of the sustainable redevelopment strategies implemented in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Delft, cities internationally recognised for excellence in sustainable design, planning, and architecture.
These cities are rich in history and culture, and have successfully established models of sustainable communities— socially inclusive neighbourhoods with diverse streetscapes, resilient economies and green design. Cities in the Netherlands have adopted urban sustainability for the last two decades, and have been leaders in setting up a wide range of best practices that have been implemented across other European countries and North America.
"In a rapidly urbanizing world, sustainable cities have the power to connect places and people in a productive and competitive global economy. These centers of urban creativity and innovation can play a critical role in addressing social and environmental injustice," says Dr. Sasha Tsenkova, Professor at the Faculty of Environmental Design, who taught the block week courses.
The week-long courses introduced students to new approaches and design strategies in Dutch cities focusing on cost effective growth management, development of livable communities, and preservation of healthy ecosystems. Designed to expose students to urban experiments promoting green, creative and equitable cities, the courses offer participating students valuable experiences that enrich their professional learning in architecture and planning.
"Urban sustainability has a long tradition in Dutch planning, promoting resilience, design excellence, connectivity and sense of place," notes Dr. Tsenkova. "Experiential learning can be very effective and inspiring for future urban professionals."
Delivered in partnership with faculties from the Universities in Amsterdam, Delft and Utrecht, the course included lectures, study tours, seminars, and independent research. It also provided students with opportunities to interact with planning professionals, architects, academics and community activists engaged in implementing sustainable practices.
EVDS offers a variety of ongoing study abroad opportunities for its students. Ranging from the one-week field study courses to semester-long programs, these opportunities support a well-rounded design education that includes practical, real-world engagement with international ideas, practices, and precedents.
For more information about EVDS' Field Study Program, click here.