All cities increasingly have to deal with stormwater, i.e., rainwater that cannot be absorbed into the ground and instead runs off surfaces like streets or roofs – sometimes with disastrous consequences.

This book analyzes recently designed open spaces and their treatment of water – not so much as an enemy but as an aesthetic element. They are conceived as amphibious landscapes that dynamically adjust to both dry and wet conditions and embrace dramatic variations: a sudden abundant presence of water perhaps followed by its prolonged absence in a drought.

Organized in the four categories urban parks, neighborhood parks, squares and streets, the book thoroughly investigates 26 European case studies. It demonstrates that stormwater must not be seen as a menace but as an invigorating part of urban life.

• Examples by renowned landscape designers such as Agence Ter, Bureau Bas Smets, Michel Desvigne Paysagiste or Henning Larsen
• Systematic presentation of design strategies and comparative analysis of stormwater-embracing designs
• All case studies are presented with photos, project description and drawings specifically prepared for this publication