Guided by the research, the second phase of the project will focus on design: What would such an allotment floating on water look like, and can it contribute to biodiversity and help the otter in particular?

For centuries, the Dutch have focused on draining water. As populations grew, more and more land was drained to free up space. Amsterdam, for example, was originally once peatland like much of our country. However, increasing drought is shifting the question to how we can retain water in our landscapes. After all, peatlands harbor a great deal of biodiversity and store many times more and longer-lasting CO2 than a forest. Otterdam explores what the new ecology and water balance may look like, and how we can welcome the otter to Amsterdam. What design interventions are needed for the animal's return?