Grontmij‘s task consists in turning the public domain into a place where people can live and move in a pleasant and safe way. The re-valorisation of the quality of life comes first. More so, we see this as our social responsibility. We reject a purely (mono-) functional, business and banal approach to the design of public space. The creation of an attractive public realm is more than an aesthetic operation to us. Lifeless neighbourhoods are given a new spirit, the city centre can be vibrant again and parks allow locals to breathe freely.

Dialogue
Openness is the key word in our approach. In its projects, Grontmij does not just take on its traditional role as architectural, urban planning and technical design agency, but is also explicitly present as process manager and communicator. The study that precedes the design is immediately also the moment to bring to the foreground the insights of future users. As a result, all parties involved enter a dialogue. During the negotiations with the executing parties and disciplines, Grontmij plays an active and coordinating role.

Respect
In the current diversity in meeting places, we strive for a re-valorisation of the public arena. This idea is strongest in our approach of streets and squares. After all, these have a clear role as public domain. Here, we work on a human scale, both with regards to design and use. This demands a respectful approach that closely matches the expectations and values of the locals and visitors. We do not design for ourselves but for the people. That is why we opt for a contextual approach with attention for the character of the environment, the history and the significance of the place.

Integration
Grontmij regards public space as an umbrella research domain across the boundaries of urban planning, environmental, infrastructural, transportation and landscape disciplines. As an advisor, designer and engineer, from a future-oriented vision, Grontmij wants to play an active and creative role in formulating answers to the new challenges in this area – from feasibility to execution.