Two roof gardens that wink to the industrial past

The old industrial area around Gonnetstraat in Haarlem has been revitalized with two residential blocks: ‘Gonnet 22’ and ‘Gonnet 24’. The architecture is by ENZO architecture N interior, and the development and construction are by HBB Group. HOSPER designed the two rugged and playful courtyard gardens, where nature is allowed to take its course within a characteristically robust and block-like pattern.

The defining elements of the courtyard garden are stepped planting beds finished with Corten steel edges. The variations in height alternate in a playful manner, creating an exciting, interesting sense of depth in the gardens. The height differences also provide privacy and shelter for the residents’ terraces. The varied plantings weave naturally through the pattern. The paths are made of Olivijn semi-paving. Wooden poufs offer informal seating.

The industrial atmosphere in the courtyard garden at Gonnet 24 is enhanced by the historic HAL factory building. With its restaurant and terrace, it brings a lively atmosphere to the courtyard garden. On the other side, a communal terrace for residents marks the end of the courtyard garden. This terrace features two small picnic tables. The planting is primarily composed of grasses, complemented by flowering perennials. Small trees and shrubs are also scattered throughout the courtyard garden.

At Gonnet 22, the planting is based on ornamental grasses, complemented by flowering perennials and small trees and shrubs scattered throughout. On the wide south side, a small pergola with a bench marks the end of the courtyard garden.

Location: Haarlem
Landscape architect: HOSPER landschapsarchitectuur
Architect: ENZO architecture N interior.
Implementation: De Dakdokters
Client: HBB Groep B.V.
Size: 0.15 ha.
Year of design: 2019 – 2023
Year of implementation: 2023 – 2024
Status: completed

52.3866025941571, 4.6437668691923655