ICOON AFSLUITDIJK is a design innovation program, commissioned by the Dutch Government, which enhances the innovative character of the legendary 32 kilometer Dutch dike whilst highlighting its key functions: water protection & heritage, energy and mobility as an exemplary model of a smart landscape for today and tomorrow.

GLOWING NATURE shows the beauty of nature on the Afsluitdijk by means of a unique encounter between man, biology and technology. It will be exclusively exhibited in one of the historical bunkers, providing an interactive and mysterious experience with live bioluminescent algae. Algae are the new building blocks for our future of food and fuel. Our algae are one of the oldest microorganisms in the world that light up for an extended period of time when perfectly maintained. Here visitors are able to magically interact with the algae that glow upon your steps as a concrete example of our future streetlights.

The Afsluitdijk is the 32 kilometer long dike which protects the Netherlands against water and flooding. Built mostly by hand and realized in 1932 it is an engineering highlight of the Netherlands and a unique place in the world. After 85 years, the Afsluitdijk is now in need of a thorough renovation. The Dutch state with the surrounding municipalities and provinces have joined forces to lead an ambitious programme to protect the future of the dike. As part of the programme, Roosegaarde's ICOON AFSLUITDIJK enhances the iconic status of the Afsluitdijk with a layer of light and interaction. The three designs developed by Daan Roosegaarde and his team of designers and engineers are entitled GATES OF LIGHT, WINDVOGEL and GLOWING NATURE, which form a model of a green landscape.