Landscaping, design & realization
This project was inspired by the desire to transform a compact urban garden surrounding a historic building into a spacious, green, and multifunctional garden landscape.
This garden can be seen in episode 2 of season 4 of *Het Goede Buitenleven*.
Urban Garden in Haarlem

This unique urban garden surrounding a historic building demonstrates how even a compact outdoor space can evolve into a fully-fledged and versatile garden landscape. By making clever use of the existing elevation changes, a natural sequence of different garden rooms is created, making the garden feel larger and more spacious than the available area would suggest. Despite the absence of a lawn, a rich green experience is created, with every square meter carefully utilized. Strategically placed planting beds provide a layered visual composition with ample greenery, while maintaining sightlines and open spaces. This creates a balance between architecture, livability, and landscaping, in keeping with the home’s historic character.
A key feature of the design is the bold use of materials. The terraces are constructed entirely of Millboard, which combines the warm appearance of wood with high durability and low maintenance. The natural wood tones provide a beautiful contrast to the classic pavers that connect the garden to the basement. A sturdy metal staircase connects the house to the garden and adds a contemporary architectural element to the design. This combination of materials creates a garden that feels modern, timeless, and in keeping with its historic context all at once.
At the back of the garden is a multifunctional outdoor structure with a spacious glass facade and a fully integrated outdoor kitchen. The building subtly combines multiple functions, including storage, a back entrance, and a living space, with doors and amenities incorporated into the design so they are virtually invisible. Technical installations have also been carefully concealed behind greenery and bamboo, preserving the tranquility of the garden’s appearance. This creates a high-quality outdoor space that is not only aesthetically striking but also optimally suited to the residents’ daily use throughout all seasons of the year.
For us, urban gardens are a specialty in their own right. Although the area is often more limited than in rural projects, the design challenges are just as great. Especially in compact spaces, it’s all about smart layout, efficient use of every square meter, and creating a sense of space without overloading the garden. In addition, inner-city projects require specific knowledge of logistics, permits, parking facilities, and working within restricted access situations. Thanks to our many years of experience with urban gardens, we know how to carefully organize these processes. Whether it’s a compact urban garden or a large-scale outdoor project, our ambition remains the same: to create an outdoor space that perfectly complements the home, its residents, and the available space—regardless of the project’s size.
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How was the modern garden in Haarlem designed?
The modern garden in Haarlem was designed with clean lines, open spaces, and a balance between design and functionality. BURO Buiten opted for a combination of sustainable materials, such as concrete and wood, and a planting plan that provides structure and color. The design complements the home’s architecture and the surrounding nature perfectly.
What are the costs for designing a modern garden like the one in Haarlem?
Costs vary depending on the size of the garden, the design and the materials chosen. BURO Buiten works with three price categories:
After the introductory meeting you will receive a customized quote. You will know in advance exactly what to expect and which elements will be included in the design.
How long did it take to build this modern garden in Haarlem?
The construction of the garden took between four and eight weeks on average, depending on the complexity of the design and the execution of the planting and paving. BURO Buiten plans everything carefully and coordinates with the professionals to ensure that the process is smooth and without delays.
Does BURO Buiten work with local professionals in Haarlem?
Yes, BURO Buiten collaborates with local professionals who are very familiar with the Haarlem region. They ensure the design is expertly executed and are accustomed to the specific conditions of the area. BURO Buiten remains involved throughout the entire process to ensure that everything is carried out according to your wishes.
What makes this modern garden in Haarlem special?
The garden has a sleek design with minimalist elements that fit perfectly with the house. The combination of materials and plants creates a timeless look, while the clever layout makes the garden spacious and functional. The result is a modern, low-maintenance garden that invites relaxation.
But first, a brief introduction