Blooming Buildings: In 2015, the area between Koningsplein and Muntplein in Amsterdam was facing challenges such as vacant properties and declining business turnover. Recognizing the need to revitalize the area and prevent further decline, the association of entrepreneurs sought to improve the environment and introduce more greenery. The founder of Blooming Buildings took charge of the project development and implementation, working closely with all entrepreneurs and stakeholders involved.
An ambitious plan was formulated, with a shared commitment to achieve a 30% increase in turnover. This marked the first time that large-scale ‘façade borders’ were designed in a unified style within an existing area with limited space. Despite challenges, the project was successfully realized within a remarkably short timeframe of just six months. All the actions: agreement from all concerned buildings owners and enterprises, stakeholder discussions, financing, planning permission, permission for monumental buildings, still had to be initiated from the start of this period. The transformation of the area gave rise to the rejuvenation of the ‘Secret Village’, resolving vacancy issues, surpassing turnover targets, and fostering social cohesion.
The success of the project caught the attention of the Amsterdam municipality, who, convinced by the positive impact on the area, allocated a budget the following year to extend the greening efforts to the rest of the neighborhood. The additional benefits of increased climate resilience and noticeable temperature reduction during the summer further validated the significance of the project. The Koningsplein-Muntplein project stands as a testament to the power of green spaces in revitalizing urban areas, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
Harry Pierik, Blooming Buildings’ landscape architect, has an impressive knowledge of plants and a keen aesthetic sense. Rather than working with large groups of plants, he designs with individual plants, creating intricate arrangements. He uses hundreds of different plant types in each project, achieving a beautiful balance, which he describes as “unity in diversity.”
He pays close attention to varying heights, creating dynamic structures. His attention to detail is remarkable – flowers, leaves, stems, berries, and seed pods all harmonize in colors and textures. Pierik is truly a plant magician, crafting designs that remain interesting year-round. Every day throughout the year, several different types of plants bloom, offering a visual feast and supporting biodiversity. All of his designs are fully tailored to fit the physical location, environment, architectural style, color scheme, and functionality of the space. Today, 9 years after completing the project, the greenery looks as vibrant as ever and completely changed the dynamics of the area.
Landscape architecture: Blooming Buildings
Year completed: 2016-2017
Photo credits: Blooming Buildings
