An optimistic perspective on the future of the Netherlands

What if we didn’t wait for solutions from above, but just got started? Floor Milikowski’s new book Contouren van een Nieuw Land (Contours of a New Country) contains hopeful stories about local initiators who are setting sustainable and just changes in motion.

This year, Arcam is working under the theme An Optimistic Disaster Plan. From an optimistic and design-oriented perspective, it explores the role designers can play in a world where things do not always improve automatically, particularly in light of the climate crisis.

At the same time, Floor Milikowski’s new book Contouren van een Nieuw Land was published, in which she sketches an inspiring vision of the future for spatial planning. She shows how local initiators are taking matters into their own hands and shaping new areas in a sustainable and socially just manner.

This is an excellent opportunity to engage in conversation, contribute design knowledge and fuel the discussion with concrete, inspiring examples from practice. That is why Arcam is organising an evening programme on 9 October, with a book presentation and interactive panel discussion, followed by drinks. The discussion panel consists of NVTL member Harro de Jong – Buro Harro, Marian Stuiver – Director of the Data and Knowledge Hub for Healthy Urban Living, Floor Milikowski and other guests.