“In Ghent, Belgium, the historical garden of an 18th century building under monument protection has been embellished with contemporary elements. Although the city villa “Hôtel Verhaegen” also serves as a luxury bed-and-breakfast, the garden is accessible only to the owners, who wanted to have greater privacy and be screened from the neighboring apartments. In addition, the existing, somewhat neglected “Jardin de Broderie” required subtle changes, as its stark box hedges and classical fountain lent it a severe, almost military appearance.”

The solution to the design challenge….

“Six trimmed linden trees now screen the garden from view along the wall’s length of 15 meters. Three new, organic wood sculptures stand in front of the linden hedge, in deliberate contrast to the historical garden. The abstract structures are made of chestnut wood, supported by steel pillar foundations. They were built on site. At night, yellow and red lights create a magical mood in the garden. Two climbing roses wind around each of the freestanding wood sculptures. The flowerbed at the edge of the plot was planted in such a way as to create a “wild and prairie” feeling. White iris serves to emphasize the historical fountain. The landscape architect deliberately used neither herbs nor perennials, as the garden had originally been designed as a pleasure garden.”

Designed by Albèric Moreels of Belgium. Images from Private plots and Public Spots.

What do you think?  A good solution to the design brief?  I kind of think so, even though I am quite sure I wouldn’t have thought of  doing the same.