Garden with terraces on the water – Veenendaal

Introduction

This backyard of a semi-detached house adjoins a wide ditch. In the initial situation there was a difference in level from house to ditch of about one and a half meters. The garden was on the same level as the house and you could only get to the waterfront via a steep staircase at the end of the garden. As a result, there was no relationship at all with the waterfront.

Concept

The owners wanted more contact with the water and there was also a need for a place where the images of the owner could be exhibited. There was also the wish to fit in a small studio in the garden.

To bridge the difference in height, I have divided the garden into three levels. The first level is at the same level as the house. Here a small terrace has been created in the shade. There is also room for the waste containers here. Under an existing rowan a shadow border has been created. A retaining wall stops the ground.
Via a ‘lazy’ staircase you descend to the second level. On one side there is a lawn lined with a sunny perennial border and on the other side there is room for exhibiting sculptures from the owner (sculpture garden).
The lowest level is equal to the ditch and there is the large terrace. With a modest studio on the other side. After all, you will reach the water through three sloping wooden decking.

Implementation

To emphasize the level differences of the individual terraces, low hedges of yew are planted. A long border with hydrangeas is applied on one side. This provides a visual connection between the terraces over the entire length of the garden.
In the sunny border, perennials have been used, such as red sun hat, geranium and king’s herb. The shaded border contains plants such as plum blossoms, tortoiseshell flower, Japanese wax flower and foxglove, which is allowed to spread in between.
A pergola has been placed at the waterfront terrace, which is equipped with a climber (akebia and clematis) in strategic locations to prevent the incoming view. We have planted yellow iris along the edge of the ditch. In this way, the water and all its life can be optimally enjoyed from the terrace.

Client: Private
Project type:  Garden Design