It must be the flatness of the country. With no mountains to build on, Dutch monasteries were always part of the urban fabric. An Augustinian convent was founded in the Dordrecht of 1275 around the Kloostertuin (cloister garden). It was in this convent that the United Provinces declared independence in 1572. In the same Statenzaal a gathering of Protestant churches or General Synod decided to translate the Bible in 1618-1619, defining Dutch faith and language simultaneously.

Some of these historical sites remain. Over the years a courtyard in the middle of a religious building complex became a backyard in the city center. Dilapidated by overuse and neglect, the Kloostertuin deserved and got a new life and character, to connect with and distinguish it from its surroundings. Typical for Dordrecht, public spaces are linked by archways, adding to the intimacy of the inner city.

 
 

Directions Two slightly diverging angles defined by the surrounding buildings are reflected in the outlines of the raised grass platform in the middle. Straight edges of Corten steel hold nature in a firm grip and protect green against man and beast. Too high to walk on, low enough to sit upon where both directions meet.

Fault line Torn in half, the knee high grassy rectangle refers to cloister gardens of ancient times. Two monumental trees, a sycamore and a maple, fill the crack,  providing shade and shelter. The path in between connects with existing alleys on both sides. Its edges send out an invitation to sit and contemplate.

Stone bench When empty, a traditional park bench is a forlorn object. Here, stone slabs in a lightning shape create different angles through the divided green. Sitting next or opposite to each other is the first choice, leaving multiple possibilities as to a comfortable distance. From early spring till well into summer, bulbs add color to the view.

Bushes Around the raised lawn a path connects the city alleyways with entrances to private gardens. Bushes form a separation screen and bring the scale of private gardens into the public realm. Historical monuments provide a reminder of historic moments in Dordrecht.

 

Client
Municipality of Dordrecht

Credits
Casper Slijpen
Landscape architect

Francien van Kempen
Technician