Award winning Nelson Mandela Park masterplan

SWA/Balsley have designed the Nelson Mandela Park masterplan for Rotterdam, and won an ASLA-NY 2021 Design Award for the result.

The new park celebrates the maritime heritage of Rotterdam, inspired by the natural hydrology and tidal vegetation systems of the river, harnessing the coast for the benefit of future generations.

The SWA/Balsley masterplan for Nelson Mandela Park masterplan in Rotterdam

SWA/Balsley’s plan, “converts underused harbour space in Rotterdam into vibrant urban parkland for South Maashaven’s underserved neighbourhoods,” and, “provides much-needed central neighbourhood and civic open space in the city’s South Maashaven district, a home to a growing and increasingly diverse population.”

It won a 2021 Design Award from the American Society of Landscape Architect’s New York City chapter, with project selection based on design and execution, innovation, and impact on the community and the profession.

SWA/Balsley have taken a holistic socially, culturally and ecologically driven approach, connecting the seven hectare park to public transit.

Nelson Mandela Park has also been identified by the City of Rotterdam as one of the Big Five park projects. Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port, and this post-industrial area along the harbour is surrounded by dense urban districts lacking green spaces.

A community engagement process, “ensured that the new park design will be responsive to its diverse stakeholders and provide a catalyst for future development in this fast-growing urban district.”

The new park celebrates the maritime heritage of Rotterdam.

SWA/Balsley have taken a holistic socially, culturally and ecologically driven approach, connecting the seven hectare park to public transit and blending it with Rotterdam’s flood defence levee. The park’s edge will align with a new levee promenade along Pretorialaan Commercial boulevard, acting as a welcoming gateway for everyday users.

The new waterfront consists of a naturalised shoreline, marsh habitats, multi-purpose lawns, tree groves, and sculpted knolls and overlooks, while the water’s edge is a dynamic experience complete with tidal pools, wetlands, and a local water taxi station and pavilion.

The planned park would provide much-needed central neighbourhood and civic open space in the city’s South Maashaven district.

A large space for more community programming features multiple flexible lawn areas, a cultural plaza, all-age playgrounds in a shaded tree grove, overlooks and a marsh walk. Combined with the setting’s spectacular views of the harbour, Nelson Mandela Park will be a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.