August 29, 2025
On the twentieth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina making landfall, we take a moment to reflect on the disaster’s lasting impact and the ongoing importance of disaster resilience architecture. Director Richard Coutts has revisited this moment in history through a detailed drawing that captures both the devastation and the enduring spirit of the communities affected.
The drawing, recently published by the American Press, offers a poignant visual reminder of the lives forever changed by Katrina. At its centre is a figure inspired by Robert Green Sr., who lost both his mother and granddaughter in the catastrophe. His story embodies the courage and dignity that underpin the very essence of resilient communities planning, reminding us that resilience is both human and structural.
Katrina remains a stark example of how climate extremes demand proactive climate adaptation design. The hurricane demonstrated the consequences of unpreparedness and highlighted the need for design approaches rooted in foresight, trust, and long-term commitment. While engineering plays a crucial role, true resilience requires equitable planning that serves those most at risk.
The lessons from New Orleans also resonate deeply in the UK, where climate pressures are steadily increasing. As Richard notes, the country must shift from an over-reliance on hard defences toward nature-based flood solutions that work with water and natural systems rather than against them. These approaches need to be supported by legal frameworks that extend beyond short political cycles.
Ultimately, Hurricane Katrina is a powerful reminder that living with water is not optional; it is a reality that demands sustained vigilance and investment in climate resilience strategies. As this anniversary encourages reflection and remembrance, it also reinforces the collective responsibility to protect communities facing rising climate risk.
