Zutphen IJsselkade by HOSPER

Built in 2024 / 2025 Built Landscapes / 2025 Entries / 2025 Public Projects / Netherlands /
hosper.nl

Redevelopment of the historic IJsselkade in Zutphen, from a parking lot into a riverside promenade with flood protection

That historical protection systems can go hand in hand with innovation of surrounding scenery is a fact demonstrated by the redevelopment of the IJsselkade in Zutphen. Culturally historic structures were important elements of inspiration for the redesign of the quay. The city’s existing fortifications were transformed to not only serve as primary flood risk management structures, but also to enhance the area’s living quality.

In phase 1 (completed in 2018), the new (slightly) inclined flood protection wall was designed and built out of brick and mortar. This design takes inspiration from and refers to the iconic historic walls of the old fortified town. Further, the green terraces along the quay, crafted with a white border, not only double as areas for seating an lounging but also refer to the ramparts of grass of the past fortifications.

The lower part of the quay was transformed into a car-free zone, making way for pedestrians and cyclists. To provide access, a new bicycle ramp was created leading down from the bastion. Along the new cycling route, a line of elm trees was planted to emphasize the edge of the monumental city front.

The design of the benches along the grass plateaus was inspired by the traditional shutters of the historic houses along the IJsselkade. The Berkelstuw (a small dam; part of the flood defense system) became part of the liveable experience with the design of new stairs and bridges, making it more accessible. The floodgate in the flood protection wall was widened near the city center, thus creating a possibility for an open view from the city to the IJssel. A catering kiosk blocking the line of sight was demolished and relocated to accommodate this vision. In close consultation with the families of the victims, the (local) war monument was relocated as well. A new, fitting location was found, more closely related to the place where the fusillade actually took place.

In phase 2 (completed in 2024), a solution for widening the river was carried out by partially excavating the quay, shifting it towards the city and transforming it into stairs leading to the water. These actions created space for the river and made at this point a strong corner point (“bastion”), which again refers to the past of Zutphen as a fortified town. The stair-steps into the water and the renewed riverfront transformed the IJsselkade into an immersive space, providing both a vibrant and enjoyable experience for the residents and the visitors of Zutphen alike.

•Project typology:

riverside promenade

•Landscape architecture offices involved in the design of landscape:
Landscape Architecture: HOSPER

Role of the office in this project: design public space including the main architectural designs for the flood protection walls and bridges

Other designers involved in the design of landscape: Studio DL (lighting design), Studio Carmela Bogman (design benches), Roelofs/Nepocon/Orbis (technical design)

•Architecture offices involved in the design:
IAA architects (design catering kiosk)

•Other credits:
Client: Municipality of Zutphen
Partners: Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management + Delta Programme Rivers, Water Board Rijn and IJssel, Province of Gelderland, National Cultural Heritage Agency
Builder: NTP Groep, De Klerk Werkendam, Platenkamp
Photography: Pieter Kers / Daniela Depau

Location:

IJsselkade – Google Maps

•Year Completed (last built phase):

2024