The residential area as a novelty - 2020/current
For the BNSP the call 'The residential district as a novelty' has been initiated. The call explores new ways in design and development strategy for municipalities with places that need it. Not with hefty reports, but by spatial professionals who have mastered the art of imagination. The call stands for a free thinking exercise that helps municipalities to come up with bold and optimistic ideas. The kick-off took place on 6 February 2020 during the BNSP/NVTL day at Pakhuis de Zwijger, led by Guido Wallagh (see the afternoon programme, 1.31).

Ideas that are elaborated in a public-friendly model and development strategy with which municipalities can conduct the debate in full public view. Each edition is a collaboration with a municipality. Geleen was the first to take the lead in 2020 with a city centre that no longer has a heart of shops - a challenge that will take your teeth to overcome. From a pile of 47 plans, two teams were selected to develop their idea. These will be presented on 26 February 2021.

The selection committee consisted of: Chief Government Architect Floris Alkemade, chairman NVTL Ben Kuipers, the local architects Nicole Maurer and Joop Petit and board member BNSP JacquelineTellinga. Chairman of the committee was urban planner Joost Schrijnen.