Houthavens Botanique: from derelict site to green meeting place
In the heart of Amsterdam’s Houthavens, a derelict building site has been transformed into Houthavens Botanique: a small botanical park where nature, social interaction and climate adaptation come together. Commissioned by Heren2 and designed by Erwin Stam Tuinstudio, Ebben Project Support carried out the complete construction of the park. From soil improvement and water management to the laying of hard surfaces and the planting of trees and vegetation: all elements were carried out as an integrated whole to create a sustainable and future-proof outdoor space.
When property developer Heren2 decided not to develop the site for the time being, the question arose as to how this space could be put to meaningful use on a temporary basis. The original idea was modest: to plant a few trees to add some extra greenery to the neighbourhood. However, landscape designer Erwin Stam saw an opportunity to create something much more.
Inspired by pocket parks he had previously visited in the United States and Australia, he designed a green space where the focus is not on activity, but rather on tranquillity and socialising.
“I envisaged a refined, green space where people aren’t rushed through. Not a route for running or cycling through quickly, but rather an outdoor space where you can slow down and unwind.”
That vision is reflected in the park’s layout. Classic lines, undulating hedges and a circular square create an intimate atmosphere. A large mural and a wooden sculpture give the site its own identity, whilst a raised footpath lined with trees provides space for a variety of activities, from neighbourhood gatherings to fashion shows and cultural events.
From building site to healthy growing environment
Beneath the green façade lies a carefully constructed technical foundation. The site consisted of heavily compacted building soil and clay, which meant that rainwater could barely infiltrate. Particularly during the wet winter of 2024–2025, it became clear that achieving healthy soil was the greatest challenge.
To make the growing area suitable for sustainable planting, part of the existing soil was excavated and replaced. In addition, the soil was improved to restore soil life and permanently strengthen its structure. Wadis with moisture-loving plants, including impressive Gunneras, temporarily collect rainwater, whilst an underground drainage system carries off excess water.
The work was carried out by Ebben Project Support, which was responsible for the complete construction of the park. In close collaboration with Erwin Stam Tuinstudio and Boomkwekerij Ebben, the design, soil improvement and implementation were fully coordinated. This resulted in a growing environment in which trees and plants can develop sustainably.
As roots grow deeper and soil life continues to develop, the soil’s infiltration capacity also improves. This creates a system that continuously reinforces itself.
Trees prepared for tomorrow’s climate
The choice of trees was tailored entirely to a changing climate. Species had to be able to withstand both prolonged drought and extreme rainfall, whilst at the same time contributing to biodiversity and the quality of the built environment.
A striking presence is the willow-leaved oak (Quercus phellos), which is increasingly being cited as a promising tree for the future. Thanks to its great adaptability, this species thrives in urban environments. As a symbolic start to the park, an eight-metre-tall specimen was planted alongside a few shrubs by children from the Houthaven after-school care centre during a tree-planting day.
For the drier parts of the park, Pinus pinea was chosen. With its characteristic umbrella-shaped crown, this Mediterranean tree not only adds a striking silhouette to the park, but also demonstrates how species from warmer climate zones are becoming increasingly relevant in future-proof urban planting schemes.
Diversity as a guiding principle
Alongside these iconic species, several climate-resilient trees have been incorporated, each making its own contribution to the park’s atmosphere. Parrotia persica provides spectacular autumn colour, whilst Gleditsia triacanthos, with its open crown structure, brings light and air into the planting and also serves as a valuable source of nectar for insects.
Zelkova serrata, Quercus ilex and various elm (Ulmus) cultivars were also selected due to their proven suitability for urban growing conditions and their resilience to drought, heat and other climatic extremes.
Ebben Nursery was closely involved in the selection of the trees and advised on the layout of the planting areas. This partnership has been in place for many years.
“Ebben has been a long-standing partner. It is precisely when faced with complex issues, such as the soil problems at this site, that we work together to find the best solution.”
A designed landscape with space for spontaneous nature
Although Houthavens Botanique has been carefully designed, nature is explicitly given the space to develop further. The trees form the structure of the park, but the ground cover has been deliberately chosen to allow room for spontaneous vegetation.
A wildflower mix provides colour and food for pollinating insects throughout the season. In addition, unusual roses, hydrangeas and various bulbous and tuberous plants have been planted. A striking feature is the choice of over 4,000 botanical tulips. Unlike many modern cultivars, these natural tulip varieties persist for years and can even spread.
According to Erwin Stam, it is precisely this controlled spontaneity that forms an important guiding principle.
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