“Hush-Hush”
A not-so-covert mission to create a secret garden, brighten-up the Bloemgracht, and bring a blooming smile to the local community.
A grand design by Bloemgracht’s most boisterous neighbours.
Blink, and you might miss this once derelict patch of land, which is destined to become an urban oasis and summertime micro-garden tucked alongside Amsterdam’s prettiest canal, the aptly named Bloemgracht – Flower Canal.
The “Secret Garden” is nestled within the picturesque bohemian Jordaan buurt, derived from the French word jardin, (meaning garden). Jordaan has many hofjes (inner courtyards), some restored with peaceful gardens and open to the public for a few days during the summer.
Hidden in plain sight, the “Secret Garden” is open for the public all year round. This vibrant quarter brims with vivacious locals who give Bloemgracht its’ energetic pace and lively character. A charming community of eclectic bohemians, musicians and artists, both past and present.
Notable residents included Rembrandt, who spent the twilight years of his life in the Jordaan. However in present day Bloemgracht, palettes and paintbrushes have been swapped for garden spades, trowels and colourful perennials.
With a flourish of horticultural spirit and twitching green fingers, we hope to sow the seeds for a growth in secret gardening and neighbourly fun, to reclaim small urban spaces and micro-green communities.
