| Client | Florishing shopping centre in IJburg for Achmea Real Estate and Stadsdeel Oost |
|---|---|
| Specialities | Area Development |
| Location | Amsterdam |
| Realised on | 2024 |
| Activities | Advice (incl. permits) Concept Design Construction |
| Share | |
In total, we used around 120 different plant species. This ensures a year-round flowering arc, so there’s always something surprising to see. To make sure the area still looks appealing in winter, we included many evergreen plants and wrapped the building wherever possible with climbing plants. A welcome side effect: insects can always find something to eat, and birds have places to shelter.
Together with the ferns (which absorb fine particulate matter better than most plants), the climbing plants also contribute to cleaner air and offer cooling on hot summer days. During heavy rainfall, the planting is capable of absorbing the excess water, preventing climate-related damage.
With a limited number of interventions, we have made Shopping Center IJburg both climate-resilient and visually more attractive.
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One of the challenges institutional investors face: due to increasing climate issues (like heat stress and water damage), certain areas are struggling to maintain their value and are becoming more expensive to insure. Climate-adaptive measures, it’s often believed, are costly and take time to yield results. At Blooming Buildings, we see things differently.
If done right—and by combining climate adaptation with aesthetically appealing planting—green is not a cost, but an investment. You can turn a risk zone into a growth diamond: a place where climate challenges are addressed, biodiversity returns, social interaction increases, commercial appeal flourishes, vacancies disappear, and property value rises. With striking, high-quality planting, you’re adding value from day one.
During installation, we often receive compliments from curious passersby who boost our egos with kind words. But there’s usually some skepticism too: “It looks amazing now, but can you guarantee it will stay that way?” Our answer: absolutely. And it’s all thanks to our 5 Rules of Biodiversity: healthy soil, diverse planting, a year-round flowering arc, efficient irrigation, and caring maintenance.
As for that last one, this is our philosophy: carry out regular, small-scale maintenance. We always look for local caretakers who can manage the planting on a weekly basis. That way, we can prevent disease and dehydration—and ensure everything stays fresh and lush.
