The historic Varkensmarkt in Amersfoort has undergone a remarkable transformation, reclaiming its charm and purpose as a central meeting place for residents and visitors alike. Through an extensive participatory process, a layered and integrated redesign was realized—using simple yet thoughtful interventions. Once again, the Varkensmarkt functions as a welcoming public square, anchored by an iconic city bench that invites people to linger and connect.
Once a lively marketplace, the square had become a cluttered, traffic-dominated space filled with parked bicycles. Its transformation presented both a challenge and a unique opportunity to restore its historical and social relevance and to create a dynamic, climate-adaptive urban space.
Given its location in the heart of Amersfoort, the Varkensmarkt plays a vital role in the city’s social and cultural life. The design process began with a wide participation process involving municipal departments, design quality teams, local entrepreneurs, resident organizations, and the public. A comprehensive inventory of all interests—including heritage, maintenance, and commerce—was documented and used to define the project’s parameters. A set of twelve design scenarios, each with pros and cons, was presented and refined through working sessions and public votes, ultimately shaping a collective outcome.
This collaborative approach led to a design that carefully balances history and innovation. While respecting the heritage of the site, the new Varkensmarkt also responds to contemporary urban challenges. The ambition was to create a sustainable, climate-resilient square—capable of withstanding extreme rainfall and mitigating the urban heat island effect. The transformation was guided by the following key design principles:
Façade to Façade
The square has been reimagined as a continuous public space from building to building. It is now car-free, with cyclists treated as guests. Bicycle parking has been relocated to the periphery, enhancing accessibility and openness.
Greening the Square
Nature-based water management solutions were introduced to handle excess rainfall. Rainwater is now captured and directed into newly added planting beds, reducing flood risk. Existing trees are complemented by new ones, enhancing shade and biodiversity. Meandering planting zones are filled with perennials and ornamental grasses, offering year-round ecological value for birds and insects.
Sustainable Materials
Existing brick pavers and natural stone curbs were reused in the new layout. The alternating paving pattern of bricks and natural stone creates a unique, textured ground plane, reflecting both history and craftsmanship.
A custom-designed, organically shaped bench forms the heart of the square. Winding gently between the trees, the bench invites people to rest, meet, and enjoy the space. Made from sustainably sourced European Accoya wood, it consists of three parts and provides a variety of seating options—some with backrests, others without. Its dynamic shape adapts to its surroundings, offering comfort in sun or shade. Whether enjoying ice cream in summer or warming up with coffee in winter, people of all ages now gather here throughout the year. The bench has quickly become a beloved urban feature among the citizens.
Built by Grijsen Park & Straatdesign, the bench is a feat of craftsmanship. Its underside follows a uniform plinth height, closed off to prevent debris accumulation. A metal grille beneath the seat stops personal items from falling through. All wooden parts are mounted on a thermally galvanized, welded steel frame and can be disassembled for maintenance or repair. Treated with a transparent anti-graffiti coating, the bench was made off-site and installed in segments.
The lighting concept, developed in collaboration with Atelier Lek, features low poles with softly glowing spotlights that shine beneath the tree canopy. This creates a warm, intimate nighttime atmosphere, similar to the effect of table lamps in a living room. People can choose open or more shaded spots depending on their mood. Custom façade-mounted fixtures, co-designed by Atelier Lek and the municipality, will soon be applied throughout the historic city center. Subtle natural stone accents in the paving reflect ambient light, giving the square a quiet, elegant shimmer after dark.
The Varkensmarkt redesign was honored with the Stadsbouwprijs 2024 in the Small category. According to the jury, the project is exemplary—showing how public spaces can be revitalized through modest interventions with maximum impact. It is a powerful example of how sustainable design and community engagement can restore identity, stimulate social interaction, and enhance urban quality.
• Other landscape architecture offices involved in the design of the landscape:
LOOSvanVLIET
• Other credits:
Jacqueline van der Kloet: planting advice
Grijsen street furniture
