Renan Dijkinga

(Be)Coming Home

(dutch text will follow soon)
(Be)coming Home focuses on the Campos Gerais region and the Devonian Scarp in southern Brazil, my home. This area's identity is shaped by a rich tapestry of geological, natural, and cultural-historical layers. However, without intentional efforts to bridge these dynamics, alongside the rise of extensive monocultures, exotic species forestry, and unregulated tourism exploiting the landscape, the region risks becoming inhospitable, threatening both its environment and the communities that depend on it.

(Be)coming Home envisions a future where people reconnect with the land, blending traditional practices with the strengths of natural systems. The project introduces new methods for locals to engage with the landscape, transforming land use to generate opportunities for landowners and residents. These initiatives aim to provide alternative livelihoods, regenerate the environment, attract new economic activities, and help communities rediscover the beauty of their surroundings.

Central to this vision is the creation of a network of natural and cultural tourism sites, weaving together local properties through regenerative land use. These interventions not only generate income for communities but also support native flora and fauna, protecting the biodiversity of the region. Redesigned pathways strengthen the connection between people and the land, focusing on healing damaged areas and fostering a deeper sense of identity and stewardship.

One of the essential roles of landscape architecture is to highlight, preserve, and strengthen the local identity of the landscape. A key aspect of this approach is using the tourist potential of the region, with the primary focus on local residents. By encouraging locals to appreciate and engage with their landscape through more diverse land uses and activities, tourism becomes a tool for fostering pride in their environment. Tourists, while important, are secondary in this vision.

This new implementation of diverse land uses and activities creates opportunities for locals to experience and live within their landscape, while regenerating and supporting their home. Combined with benefiting local communities, this approach will help preserve both the cultural and environmental heritage of the region. This strategy is vital to preventing the disruption and potential disappearance of one of Brazil’s most valuable natural areas.

Ultimately, (Be)coming Home invites the creation of a sustainable environment where nature and humanity thrive together. Whether people choose to stay or simply pass through, they will find a place to belong within this regenerative landscape. 

Afstudeerdatum: 29 augustus 2024
Afstudeercommissie: Jana Crepon (mentor), Jacques Abelman, Raul Corrêa-Smith
Toegevoegde leden t.b.v. het examen: Berdie Olthof, Marieke Timmermans