In the botanical garden of Meise, a new water garden was installed in the lake adjacent to the castle. Island Garden appears as an archipelago of small islands, set in the lake with a 430-meter-long path freely meandering in between and across the different islands. It was designed in collaboration with landscape designer Arne Deruyter and hosts a rich collection of water and shoreline plants.

Initially, there was one bigger island. Its soil was used as formwork to cast the concrete path. Afterwards, the existing island was excavated to shape the archipelago of smaller islands, turning the pathway into a bridge that seems to float above the water. While its footprint almost seems haphazard, developed over time, the pristine finishing of the pathway contrasts with the natural environment within which it is set. Over time, the concrete will age and blend in the green surroundings.

Visually, the archipelago reminds of a geological formation. The many small islands host different biotopes with a long stretch of waterfront where shoreline plants are displayed. On the higher dry parts of the islands, different types of trees are planted. In this way, the whole garden constitutes a wetland microtopography, set amidst the water. This diverse array of biotopes houses a scientific collection of water and marsh plants. It is a microworld of artificial nature, aimed at conserving the plant life that lives in it, and putting it on view for those who stroll over the water.

COMMISSION
Meise Botanic Garden

DATE
2022 (permanent)

LOCATION
Meise Botanic Garden (BE)

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