LE JARDIN EXTRAORDINAIRE, FROM OLD STONE QUARRY TO LUSH PARK WITH STUNNING VIEWS

Le Jardin extraordinaire or 101st garden of Nantes has become an attraction. The former Miséry stone quarry has been transformed into an extraordinary, lush garden. Thanks to an incredibly rich plant palette with amongst others tree ferns, century-old ivy and banana trees, an exotic atmosphere is created, adapted to the pre-existing micro climate on site. Moreover, a promenade with seven stunning viewpoints links the park to Nantes’ bustling Chantenay district.

The jury was clear. This future-proof concept enhances economic and cultural attractiveness of the city of Nantes and brings people together in a social environment. Jardin Extraordinaire is a perfect example of close cooperation between landscape architects, designers and plant growers. The integration of biodiversity with a well-considered plant selection and waterfall all connected in the existing landscape is considered very innovative.

Le Jardin Extraordinaire competed in this year’s competition with 12 other projects from Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden.