Official Opening of the Vlinderhof in Máximapark

On Saturday, 24th May 24 at 2pm was the Vlinderhof at Máximapark was officially opened by Mr. Kees Geldof, the new councilor for both public and green space of Vleuten – De Meern. Joining him was the garden designer of the Vlinderhof, Piet Oudolf and landscape architect Adriaan Geuze of West 8, who has been responsible for the design of the Máximapark since 1995.

This 5000m2 garden, which sits inside the Binnenhof of Máximapark (which was designed by West 8) is a peaceful place for reflection amidst the bustling Vinex Housing area in Leidsche Rijn. It is enclosed by a hedge and is adjacent to the iconic Park Pergola. This new garden in the park is designed by botanist and garden designer Piet Oudolf in collaboration with West 8 and in consultation with local residents, who will also be responsible for the management of the garden.

The garden is designed to delight visitors across each and every season. The name Vlinderhof (butterfly courtyard) comes from the selection of plants in the garden which attract butterflies, bees and other insects. The garden will function as a meeting place and location for small-scale activities and educational programs for primary schools in Leidsche Rijn, which will be organized throughout the year.

The ceremony was accompanied by loads of festive activities in the Park. The opening was a party for everyone,  and included a guided tour for visitors and an exhibition “The making of Vlinderhof” on the development of the Vlinderhof. There was also a preview of some educational programs for primary school children and a musical accompaniment which was provided by talented musicians from Vleuten and De Meern.

Here you can watch a video of the opening ceremony where the purple ribbon was cut. In the backdrop is the Park Pergola which embraces the Vilnderhof in its virtuous way. More images can also be found here.