City Park Hoofddorp by LOOSvanVLIET

City Park Hoofddorp is a transformation of the historic Wandelbos into a vibrant, multifunctional urban park that responds to the growing demand for high-quality public space. Located at the heart of Hoofddorp, the park connects the old and new Wandelbos and the Fruittuinen (orchards), while integrating the needs of a rapidly expanding city. The design responds to the arrival of 3,800 new homes in the adjacent Hyde Park development, creating an inviting, accessible park that balances recreation, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.

A key feature is the 2 km Rondje Park: a continuous loop weaving through all park zones, designed for walking, running, and inclusive access. Marked by large white floral motifs every 300 meters and distinctive white insect-hotel totems at each entrance, the loop ties the park together both functionally and visually. Carefully selected street furniture and iconic white timber bridges reinforce a unified identity, while respecting and enhancing the park’s historic character.

New programmatic elements enrich the park’s experience: a Sensory Garden, playful fitness markers, and innovative playgrounds tailored for different age groups—including an adventurous play area partly over the water, and a playground for young children. Wooden decks by the water and ample seating create opportunities for relaxation and social interaction, while lush perennial borders and a butterfly garden add layers of ecological richness and seasonal beauty.

The transformation prioritizes ecological value and biodiversity. Mature trees were preserved wherever possible, with new flowering trees and shrub clusters introduced in consultation with local residents. Sensitive ecological zones were identified and safeguarded. Water retention was improved through the widening of the northern watercourse and reshaping of the main pond, complemented by a nature-friendly bank and a fountain to enhance water quality.

City Park Hoofddorp demonstrates how thoughtful design can revitalize a historic park into a contemporary, multifunctional space that fosters well-being, social connection, and nature inclusion. It offers a dynamic environment for both people and wildlife, creating a new green heart for Hoofddorp’s growing community.

• Other landscape architecture offices involved in the design of the landscape:
LOOSvanVLIET

• Other credits:
Jacqueline van der Kloet: planting design
DG Groep: technical development
Dijk&co Landscape Architecture: conceptual design of the park, Keti Koti Monument, and Sensory Garden

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