Behind a 1930s house in the heart of Utrecht is a small garden of approximately 2.90 by 6.50 meters. The owners’ question was whether we could further elaborate the existing garden plan into a detailed garden design in the atmosphere of Marrakesh. We accepted this special challenge and then we were also allowed to take care of the construction of this small city garden in Marrakesh atmosphere.
All wishes, such as a place for a small dinner table, a lounge area with a roof and a fireplace, a storage space for fireplace wood and Mediterranean plants and lighting, are included in the garden design. Materials determine the atmosphere and the choice of these was therefore extra important in this garden. For example, rectangular ceramic tiles in a beautiful brown-gray loam color have been selected. They are laid in a wild context and parallel to the facade with the French doors. Thus, the narrow city garden looks wider from the living room.

At the back of the garden, a slightly raised platform is made of old car parts. Above this deck we built a robust covering of Barnwood parts. This gives a very warm atmosphere. The custom-made plaster look cabinet in a soft pastel shade provides this atmosphere and also has a double function. A cozy seat has been created in the cupboard and the storage of fireplace wood has been taken into account.

We then placed an L-shaped lounge sofa against the back wall and next to the kitchen door, also in plaster look in a soft pastel shade, with a hanging corten steel fireplace above it. This way, the garden owners can also sit outside under the roof at less warm temperatures.

The water bowl, various terracotta pots, plants in the atmosphere of Morocco (including a multi-stemmed Quercus suber and Agave) and oriental lighting fixtures complete the picture of this small city garden.