Redesign of the Ymere Amsterdam complex garden
Green, use and experience
On the instructions of Housing corporation Ymere Buro Mien Ruys has renovated the existing complex garden on Parmenidesstraat in Amsterdam. The result is a contemporary, green, and future-proof outdoor space where greenery, functionality, and experience come together. A valuable asset for the residents and children in the neighborhood!
The desire was to transform the outdated outdoor space into a contemporary, green, and future-proof place that better aligns with daily use by residents and children from the neighborhood. In addition to the design, Buro Mien Ruys also provided advice on the layout of the outdoor space.
The design brings tranquility and structure while simultaneously offering space for play and socializing. Sleek hedges form the foundation and divide the garden into three distinct zones. The clever positioning of trees creates a gradual transition from sheltered edges to an open and spacious center. Along the edges, generous planting beds with a varied mix of perennials and shrubs create a rich visual effect that looks attractive in every season.
Connection to existing playground
An important principle in the design is the connection to the existing playground in the neighborhood. The garden is laid out so that children can use it in various ways. The more secluded areas with trees invite exploration and hiding, while the open lawn offers space for free play, such as football and other ball sports. This creates a natural extension of the play area in the neighborhood.
In the selection and application of materials, a conscious choice was made to incorporate more greenery. Where possible, paving was reduced, giving the garden a softer and more natural appearance. The paths leading to the private gardens are designed more compactly and constructed using 30 by 30 centimeter tiles. This creates a smooth transition between the home and the outdoor space.
The garden thus forms a cohesive whole that aligns well with daily use and contributes to the quality of life in the surroundings.
Essence of customization
Customization remains essential during the realization phase. In practice, circumstances may turn out differently than anticipated. For instance, some paths were repositioned during execution, resulting in an even stronger and better-functioning end result.
This project demonstrates the importance of flexibility in the design process. By consistently seeking the most suitable solution and using the design as a guiding principle, an outdoor space is created that not only looks good on paper but also works well in practice. Furthermore, the focus extends beyond just the design; use, experience, and ecology also play a significant role. By paying attention to both detail and the bigger picture, outdoor spaces are created that are not only beautiful but truly work for the users and the environment.
The design was drawn up in 2025 and realized in March 2026.
