The new residents of this historic Harvestehude townhouse envisioned a complete redesign of their garden. Working closely with the future users, WES Landscape Architecture and Maxie Strauch developed a concept that echoes the building's distinctive horizontal lines. Complementary hedges and material bands now divide both the front and rear gardens into distinct spaces, each with its own botanical character.

This repeating band motif flows seamlessly from the street-facing front garden through the main garden and all the way to a new plaza at the Alster's edge. A staircase at the house's rear connects the elevated sitting area to the garden below. At its base, a generous terrace serves as the transition between architecture and landscape—a slightly raised dining spot framed by hedges, perfect for the family's gatherings with views across flowers and mature trees.

Staggered bands of natural stone trace a subtle path across the lawn toward the boathouse and waterfront. These material bands are met by complementary "green bands" of hedgerows that create distinct garden rooms. Within these chambers, existing specimens gained new plant companions, and a children's play area was seamlessly integrated. The overgrown woody vegetation received careful pruning and repositioning, allowing its inherent qualities to shine. The band motif culminates at a waterside seating area—the "blue band" of the Alster—designed for contemplative views. A dedicated paved zone accommodates the boathouse with ample maneuvering space for launching boats. A newly planted riverside willow shelters this waterfront gathering spot, where the view is paramount.

www.wes-la.de

Photography Credits:

Ferdinand Graf von Luckner
www.graf-luckner.de

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 01|21)