This 1,100 m² urban garden sits in the Ruhr region, nestled within a mature residential community rich in greenery and woodland. The owner, living next door, envisioned a new family home on the property. Landscape architect Margarete Hoberg-Klute from Klute Gärtner von Eden seized a rare opportunity: designing the garden before construction began. This foresight allowed the team to integrate the house design with the landscape plan, creating genuine synergies rather than retrofitting solutions.

Built as a multi-generational home for two families, the structure responds to the site's natural slope. Both living units open directly onto garden terraces—each with its own character. The south-facing terrace features concrete pavers harmonizing with the home's aesthetic, while the upper terrace sits on a gabion-framed platform behind the house. A third level—a balcony—frames views of the landscape beyond. This stepped layout lets residents follow the sun throughout the day, choosing between sunlit or shaded spaces as the mood strikes.

The garden's crisp lines mirror the house's contemporary minimalism, yet this clarity is balanced by generous planting schemes—intentionally avoiding that sterile "new development" feel. Chinese silver grass 'Gracillimus' and 'Munstead' lavender, which flanks both terraces with continuous blooms, take center stage alongside traditional home garden staples: fruit trees and strawberry beds. It's a thoughtful blend of structure and abundance.

The impressive entrance courtyard deserves special mention—it's hardworking space with dual purpose. Visitors are greeted warmly by a honey locust with luminous foliage, establishing an immediate sense of arrival. Behind the scenes, it functions as a practical service yard adjacent to the garage. Surrounding hedges create an intimate refuge while screening unwanted views from neighbors. Yet this courtyard also serves as the visual and spatial connector linking all corners of the garden.

www.klute-garten.de

Photography Credits:

Klute Gärtner von Eden

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 01|20)