What was the impact or result of this Brave Decision?
Reintroduce as much housing as possible to correct this “mistake.” Key initiatives included densifying the city center with new housing developments, enhancing pedestrian-friendly areas, and prioritizing small-scale, human-centered design. This approach laid the foundation for a more vibrant, diverse, and livable city core. As a result, the city center has become more diverse and vibrant.
Who was the master mind of the Brave Decision?
Gemeente Rotterdam (dS+V) Martin Aarts as key driver behind the Binnenstadsplan 1985 and later Riek Bakker as director)
Decisions
Inner city plan 1985, Rotterdam
- Mixed-use
- Transformation
- Urban Design
- Built: 1985 (and 1945)
- Bold decision: Reversing post-war functional segregation
After the bombing in 1940, Rotterdam adopted the ideal of functional segregation, designating the city center primarily for work and shopping rather than residential living. This approach led to a monotonous city center with few residents and little vibrancy until 1985. That year, The Binnenstadsplan 1985 aimed to revitalize Rotterdam’s city center by reversing post-war functional segregation, which had prioritized work and shopping over residential living. The plan focused on reintroducing housing, restoring a mixed-use urban environment, and improving public spaces to attract both residents and visitors.
City
