We imagined that when you enter Kijkduin, you should feel the proximity of the sea. It sounds logical, but right now it doesn’t work that way. We solved that by re-introducing the dunescape
– Adriaan Geuze

Dutch landscape architects West 8 have presented their vision for a dune-filled seafront in The Hague that will prioritise the health and wellbeing of families in the city.

The Kijkduin-Bad public space has been commissioned by the municipality as part of its ‘Healthy Coast’ investment programme for the region. West 8’s plans were first outlined in 2009, but have now been presented in detail to residents and local businesses.

The area will be enriched with more dunes – a traditional feature of the Dutch coastal landscape – and a 280m sand-covered promenade called Balcony at Sea, lined with terraces and restaurants. The site’s existing Atlantic Hotel will be renovated and a retail centre refreshed and extended with underground parking areas to ensure the public realm encourages pedestrians.

Meanwhile, a long-distance cycle route along the Dutch coast will be improved and beautified.

West 8 founder Adriaan Geuze said: "The dunes and beach grasses give Kijkduin-Bad an identity and a friendly ambience. We imagined that when you enter Kijkduin, you should feel the proximity of the sea. It sounds logical, but right now it doesn’t work that way. We solved that by re-introducing the dunescape. Upon arrival you immediately sense the proximity of the beach and the scent of the sea.

"Creating a window to the sea is immensely important for a seaside resort. From the boulevard and the adjacent 1,000sq m plaza visitors will now have unrestricted vistas of the beach and the sea."

The cost for the renovations and the urban greening, including the introduction of beach grasses, will be partially financed by the residential, hotel and retail programme of the entire development.

West 8 are working on a number of high-profile leisure projects around the world, including an urban neighbourhood in Pittsburgh on the site of a demolished hockey stadium, a huge botanical garden in Houston and London’s Old Oak and Park Royal Common regeneration scheme. They have also recently completed the Governors Island urban park in New York.

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