Afrikanerplein

In 2007, Amsterdam's Transvaal neighborhood was classified as one of the Netherlands' most socioeconomically vulnerable areas. Despite its diverse population, it faced high crime, school dropout rates, unemployment, and transient residency. To address these issues, Minister Ella Vogelaar launched a national strategy to revitalize disadvantaged neighborhoods by fostering collaboration among local governments, housing corporations, and residents. Dubbed “focus neighborhoods,” a key goal was creating public meeting spaces to strengthen social bonds.

Alongside four other residents, I helped transform a crime-ridden plot into an organic community garden, accessible to all. Each of us contributed unique skills, and we rallied residents, businesses, and officials to support a public garden. I designed it to be inclusive, featuring 26 individual vegetable plots, a handicapped/wheelchair accesible garden, communal herb and flower beds, fruit trees, berry bushes, and picnic areas.

Despite considerable challenges, the garden officially opened on March 23, 2011. Now, it’s a model urban community space, with over 60 active households and countless visitors enjoying its bounty and beauty.