Urban Jungle
It’s hard to believe we build this wild jungle city garden in the heart of Antwerp from scratch. The initial courtyard was deep and narrow, surrounded by high brick walls and had very little greenery. The owners offered us carte blanche in transforming it into the perfect urban retreat. To that end, we suggested a lush, exotic and urban look.
Follow the path
To enlarge the disadvantage of the plot, which is the density due to the high, enclosing white walls, we painted them with a dark shade of green. This, in combination with greenery, creates the illusion of depth and infinity. To solve and to alter the standard rectangular shape of the garden, we planned a winding path of black slate, guiding towards a small and big seating area and the rear end of the plot. The path is flanked with Fatsia japonica, Rhus typhina trees, Acers, and tall bamboos that function as a natural shield of privacy.
Joy all year round
The urban jungle is extremely enjoyable for it offers different views in summer and winter. In summer the garden is dense, lush and colourful. During the winter season, the color green sets the tone and the garden offers great views from the kitchen onto the greenhouse, which we made from 19th-century old castle doors. This urban garden is perfect for city dwellers who love to enjoy their little outdoor oasis all year round.
Text by Magali Elali — Photography by Bart Kiggen