Landscape as foundation

Landscape appears in many forms. The tangible landscape, from rural to urban, forms our living space. We live and work in this space, drive through it and spend our free time in it. The visible landscape is not only made up of gardens, parks and farmland, but also of tight built-up urban areas, squares and boulevards.

Stijlgroep also recognises the invisible landscape; the landscape that is sometimes hidden, that has disappeared or that people have taken possession of in a totally different way. The analysis of this invisible landscape provides insight into the balance between spatial quality, perception, functions and natural values that are essential for spatial assignments. Original regional characteristics are reinforced, and new concepts integrated. The region’s natural and historical characteristics often serve as sources of inspiration.

In this sense, landscape functions as a foundation for new developments, both inside and outside the city. It bridges all of the levels from large-scale environmental planning to detailed design. Stijlgroep’s landscape designs look for the synergy between landscape, urban design and architecture. Where possible, Stijlgroep will take a stance with the awareness that doing so will create the strongest and most durable concepts.

Spatial knowledge

An accurate spatial analysis is essential in both landscape planning and urban redevelopment. Stijlgroep commits itself to recognising patterns and their historical and social context, interpre-ting them, and seeking out spatial questions. This demands special feelers, as well as the willingness to continue investigating assignments where others have left off and to ask the questions others have not. It requires knowledge of trends in the use, management and perception of space. This is the only way a sound foundation can be laid for good urban design.

This reveals another dimension of spatial awareness: the ability to confidently work out a spatial concept that fulfils the promises made on the drawing table. Scale, scope and a well laid-out space must lead to the desired spatial perception. In his endeavour, the designer searches for the singularity of the area, distinguishes different types of space and establishes a hierarchy.

During this quest, the designer is supported by a team of technical specialists who supplement the designer’s visions and plans with cost estimates, carry out the technical preparations and supervise the execution. At the execution level, too, we consider the spatial design of landscape and town to be an integrated activity that puts high demands on the team’s skills and craftsmanship.

People in focus

The physical landscape creates conditions for the social landscape; it has constraints, but also creates opportunities and provides possibilities. Stijlgroep’s designs focus on the human dimension; it is one of our major sources of inspiration. Our keen social awareness enables us to develop a thorough understanding of the processes that determine the use of space, the historical context and the long-term needs. Where possible, we involve residents and/or people who use the space in the design process. We discuss the possibilities with them and transform constraints into opportunities. In this sense, too, landscape and urban design are an integrated activity.

It’s this focus on the human factor that Stijlgroep’s employees have in common. This focus is also reflected in our relationship with our clients. A service-oriented attitude, the ability to take responsibility and open communication come naturally to us and form the basis for a long and fruitful cooperation.