how can we design and develop a transformation area in an integral way into an attractive and future-proof urban environment? this is the the central question of the research project stad van de toekomst (city of the future). this question is motivated by urgent social as well as local tasks in the urban areas, varying from housing demand, social inclusiveness, new economy, climate adaptation, and the like, taking into account the transitions in energy, mobility, circularity and digitization. based on future scenarios, the aim and intended results of this study are to obtain insights into the central and local questions in order to inform integral area development from systems and networks. in addition, also transitions to other spatial conditions are addressed. such insights can have significance for the developments of a number of locations, and contribute to the policy of local and central governments. the study was initiated from the ministry of infrastructure and water management (min.ienw) in close coordination with the bna (the royal institute of dutch architects), delft university of technology/dimi (delft deltas, infrastructures & mobility initiatives) and the delta metropolis association. other project partners involved are the ministry of internal affairs (min.biza) and the municipalities of amsterdam, eindhoven, the hague, rotterdam and utrecht.