FTM

Lets put a name and face behind Newland H2O. 

I am, Florence Theodora Meijer a young and ambitious woman interested in architecture, built environment and watermanagement. I created Newland H2O because I want to share my vision with the world and find likeminded people.

Skills

Creativity

Innovation Capability

Precise

Wordpress

Out of the box thinking

Critical

Flexibility

Determined

Vectorworks

QGIS-maps

Concept Development

Architectural Insight

Spatial awareness

Innovation Architectural Insight

Revit

Strategic Thinking

Problem-Solving Ability

Financial Management

Storytelling

Word, Powerpoint and Excel

Connecting the dots

They say that to truly understand yourself, you need to look back at your experiences and find the patterns that shaped who you are. Steve Jobs once described this concept, explaining that we can only make sense of our path by looking backward and connect the dots.

Looking back, I can see a clear pattern. I’ve always been fascinated by creating, not just on paper, but in three dimensions. From an early age, I was constantly building, experimenting, and bringing ideas to life. It all started with DUPLO blocks, then evolved into K’NEX, KAPLA, and LEGO. I used to create whole worlds and cities. I worked with paper, cardboard, wood, stones, shells, and eventually foam. Even in games and applications, I was drawn to those that allowed me to build or decorate. No matter the material or application, I was always constructing, designing, and building something new.

By connecting these moments, I realized that my passion has always been about building, innovating, and thinking beyond the obvious. My natural spatial awareness, creativity, and problem-solving skills shaped who I am today. Looking back helps me move forward with confidence, knowing that the things I loved as a child weren’t just hobbies, they were leading me to my true passion.

Expanding the dots

Now that I know and understand what I am passionate about, I expand these natural skills with knowledge and new abilities. Looking back, I can see how my background in economy and civics helped shape my approach to the built environment. These subjects helped me understand how the world works and how things get done. I graduated VWO in economy and civics, followed a Vectorworks course and now I study built environment. It helps me see the role architects and landscape architects play in solving problems that cities face, particularly in terms of sustainability.I believe that architecture and urban planning are not just about buildings but about creating solutions for the communities that live in them.

One of the most biggest challenges I see in the future of cities is water management. The more I’ve looked into the problems cities deal with, the more I’ve realized how critical water is in shaping the future of the built environment.

Connecting Passion with Purpose

My study in built environment taught me about fundamental concepts like wadi’s and green roofs, and I’m excited to take these ideas further and explore new ways to tackle these water-related challenges. I believe that, instead of constantly fighting water, we need to learn how to adapt to it. As sea levels rise and climate change continues to affect our cities, we need to design solutions that can keep up with these changes, ensuring that future generations can enjoy living in cities just as we do today.

Building on Experience and Skills

Currently, I’m focusing on the construction side of my studies, which I feel is an important foundation before specializing in areas like water management, infrastructure, and landscape architecture. I believe it’s essential to understand the core principles of building structures before I can think about how they interact with the environment around them. Right now, I’m learning about forces, moments, construction techniques, 3D programs, maquettes, management, financial plans, and more. We work in groups on larger projects and develop great teamwork skills, which are essential when working in a field as collaborative as the built environment.

Building with Nature

Growing up near the woods and spending so much time playing outside gave me an appreciation for the environment that I carry with me today. That’s why I’ve always been fascinated by sustainable materials and building with nature. I used to visit fairs and learn about new materials and construction methods, and over time, I’ve come to realize how essential it is to incorporate nature into our designs. I want to design buildings and cities that don’t just stand in harmony with nature but actively incorporate it.

Future dots

I see my future in the built environment as one focused on adapting cities to rising water levels, I want to be part of creating solutions. This will require a deep understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of design and the environment. That’s why I’m committed to doing extensive research, gaining practical experience, and becoming an expert in the field.

As I continue my studies, I’m excited to expand my knowledge in areas like water management, sustainable materials, and innovative construction techniques. Looking for new ways to solve the challenges our world faces.

My journey has just begun.