Varkensmarkt, Amersfoort: reclaiming the square as a vibrant urban meeting place
The historic Varkensmarkt in the heart of Amersfoort has undergone a striking transformation, reclaiming its role as a central urban square. What was once a cluttered, traffic-dominated space has been reimagined as a welcoming, green, and climate-adaptive public space, bringing together heritage, sustainability, and social interaction.
Through an extensive participatory process involving local stakeholders, the design balances historical character with contemporary needs. Four core principles guided the transformation: a continuous square from façade to façade, integrating nature-based solutions, reusing sustainable materials, and adding an iconic city bench. The result is a layered design with modest interventions yet maximum impact.
The square is now traffic-calmed, with bicycle parking relocated to the periphery. Rainwater is collected and directed to new planting beds, reducing flood risks while enhancing biodiversity with perennials and ornamental grasses. Existing trees are complemented by new plantings, and the paving pattern of natural stone and brick—reusing existing brick pavers and natural stone curbs—gives the square a unique texture and identity.
At the heart of the square lies the city bench: a custom-designed, organically shaped seating element crafted from sustainable Accoya wood. Weaving between the trees, the bench invites people to linger, socialize, and enjoy the space—whether basking in the sun or relaxing in the shade. Its dynamic form offers varied seating options, making it a true social catalyst embraced by residents and visitors alike.
An integrated lighting plan enhances the square’s atmosphere, with warm, low-level lighting under the tree canopy and subtle illumination of natural stone accents at night.
Awarded the Stadsbouwprijs 2024 in the “Small” category, the project was praised for demonstrating how relatively modest interventions can have a profound effect on public space. The jury commended its thoughtful balance of design, sustainability, and community engagement, showing how public space can foster encounter and connection with minimal means yet maximum impact.
The redevelopment of Varkensmarkt stands as an exemplary model for urban renewal, showing how public spaces can be reclaimed as places for people—resilient, inclusive, and inviting.
