Street Garden

The cities in Holland feature housing where front doors open onto the pavement.

There’s no threshold between the world and your door.

But the Dutch urbanites haven’t been put off by the close proximity of the world. There are many great examples of people creating green space right there.

The hollyhock is one key bloom in this little battle for green and I find it uplifting when the summer comes in and they soar into the landscape in town. As you can see above no space is too small.

On this street every tree has a ring if hollyhocks at its base. This has the effect of creating a massive floristry display.

The houseboat is another dwelling where greenery is a challenge but it’s not an effective problem in Amsterdam.

Believe it or not this is the access to one such house boat!

Meanwhile, for some, planting between the cracks isn’t enough.

The pavement doesn’t have to be a barren wasteland at all. Pots can be added. Planters and benches. Every space is utilised.

Looks like there’s a green solution to suit every outdoor space!