“Water Republic” is a manifesto of Project bureau Waterexpo 2010 for an optimistic approach to worldwide water issues. To the larger public, Water Republic forms a spectacular encounter with the possibilities of water. It offers a multifaceted program of events and an international exchange of knowledge. The Water Republic area stretches out from Almere to IJmuiden.

Early 2007, Rietveld Landscape was asked to develop a concept for the floating capital of Water Republic. Crucial to our proposal is that “Waterville” floats on the river IJ, exists only temporarily and slowly increases in size between 2009 and 2010, reaching its height when the Waterexpo takes place. Except for the inland navigation landing stage, all elements will choose their own course after this event has ended, leaving Waterville to dissolve into thin air.

Client: Project bureau Waterexpo 2010/VANDEJONG
Design: Rietveld Landscape in cooperation with Team Waterexpo 2010
Location: KNSM island, Amsterdam
Status: vision 2007