Archive Live! #4 Architecture and Ecology
How can we develop new forms of architecture and urban design that prioritise collaboration between nature and humanity? Two recent additions to the architecture collection on nature-inclusive design set the stage for the conversation.
12 November 2026 18:00 - 19:30
Nature-inclusive design projects
Recently, the Nieuwe Instituut added two nature-inclusive design projects to the National Collection for Dutch Architecture and Urban Planning: Plan Ooievaar (the Stork Plan) by Lodewijk van Nieuwenhuize, Dirk Sijmons and others (1985); and Louis Le Roy’s Eco-Cathedral (1960–1990). Both projects were ahead of their time in firmly placing the potential for symbiosis between nature and culture on the agenda.
What can we learn from these past projects? Escalating climate change and biodiversity loss mean that the need for regenerative, nature-inclusive approaches to architecture, landscape and living environments is more urgent than ever. Our guests will be landscape architect Dirk Sijmons, architects Piet Vollaard and Rob Hendriks, and architectural historian Imke van Hellemondt. The talk is moderated by Suzanne Mulder, architectureal historian, and Sofie De Caigny, head of Collection at the Nieuwe Instituut.
Louis Le Roy Publication
This Archive Live! event also marks the launch of Piet Vollaard and Rob Hendriks’ new Dutch-language book: Louis Le Roy, ecotect, (NAi010 Publishers, 2026).
Language: Dutch | Location: Nieuwe Instituut | RSVP (free)
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Archive Live! brings the National Collection for Dutch Architecture and Urban Planning to life through a series of events focusing on urgent issues concerning place, space and society. In doing so, we showcase collection material that provides designers and other creators with fresh perspectives and inspiration for the future.