Park Overbos
The High Speed Line between Amsterdam and Paris and the A16 highway are constructed on the site of an existing park in the periphery of Prinsenbeek. The design proposes that both the highway and the High Speed Line run under a new park that ‘folds’ in two locations (two viaducts of 100 m in width) over the infrastructure. Entirely integrating the forest and the highway, the intimacy of a romantic park contrasts sharply to the harshness of the concrete and asphalt. The park develops the identity of 'rural woods': intimate, rustic, and reflecting the characteristic landscape of the province of Brabant.
Projects details
Status:
Realised
Location:
Prinsenbeek, The Netherlands
Client:
Municipality of Breda (Gemeente Breda)
Enigneering:
Plan3 civil engineers
Trees:
BSI
Construction:
2006
Design team:
Juurlink [+] Geluk
Landscape:
Juurlink [+] Geluk
Program:
Integration of high-speed infrastructure and a 13-hectare forest park, including bridges, playgrounds, and ecological zones.
Surface:
13 ha
The park took on a rural woodland identity with the height differences in topography as special characteristic
There is a pleasant tension in the contrast between the intimate romantic park and the technical concrete and asphalt of the infrastructure
Infrastructure and the 'Folding' Park
The new developments offered unique opportunities: the park is no longer next to the highway but unfolds over the deepened infrastructure. Similar to the design of the Bois de Boulogne in Paris, the highway and the forest are entirely integrated. The park is designed for low intensity, recreational traffic. Its configuration is linear, many times narrow and adjoining backyards, where a distinctive image and the contrast between the romantic woods and the technical world of the highway are central to the experience.
Topography and Earth Manipulation
The basis for the spatial quality lies in the topography. By manipulating the earth bodies, the park becomes intertwined with the environment. The slopes are designed to be as capricious as possible, with elevations ranging from 2 m + NAP next to the water up to 13 m + NAP on top of the hill. This experience is accentuated by a height difference of 8 meters between the two viaducts. These pronounced changes in height create a dynamic landscape that masks the presence of the infrastructure below.
The Identity of 'Rural Woods'
Park Overbos is designed as a collection of 'rural woods,' similar to historical Brabant forests such as the Liebos and Mastbos. The plant selection is essential to this atmosphere, featuring pine, oak, and soft birch trees. These species contribute to the characteristic identity of the region. The circulation within these woods is intuitive, inviting visitors to slow down and enjoy a rustic, intimate environment that serves as a green buffer for the town of Prinsenbeek.
Special Items and Park Furniture
The park features several 'Special Items' that enhance its recreational value. A high bicycle bridge is suspended six meters above the ground, accentuating height differences and connecting Breda and Prinsenbeek. All park furniture, including the animal shelter, wooden platforms, and a large children's playground, is designed in wood and steel. These materials are chosen to suit the rustic character of the woods. Further activities, such as a deer park, a fishing deck, and dedicated water play areas, make the park a destination for all ages.