As part of the renovation and expansion project of this late 19th-century urban villa, the early 20th-century garden in neo-Baroque style, which is a heritage listed monument as well as the building, has also been restored and renovated.
The large dolomite stone-paved terrace and the formal parterre connecting the historic rear garden to the villa serve as new contemporary element. This area is built atop an underground architectural extension that houses a swimming pool, fitness area, and spa.
The sequence of pre-existing Baroque-style staircases and parterres, which narrow to enhance the central perspective leading to the focal point of the fountain, have been fully restored and visually reinforced with low evergreen hedges. Beyond the lawn areas, a dense composition of perennials and shrubs creates a balanced contrast.
The monumental arrangement of existing trees, which almost makes one forget they are in the heart of the city, has been enhanced and extended with espalier hornbeams, framing the new terrace and ensuring privacy.
As part of the underground extension, a new semi-subterranean courtyard has been created, directly connected to the wellness area. It features natural stone paving and cladding, as well as large wooden seating areas, providing a cool retreat after a sauna session.
The front garden, overlooking the elegant Harvestehude district and free from historical conservation constraints, is dominated by a majestic weeping beech and is reimagined as a contemporary Mediterranean-inspired gravel garden. The space around the tree is framed by topiary Ilex and beech hedges, punctuated by Japanese maples and witch hazels, which stand out against the monochrome background with their distinctive foliage. To ensure visual continuity and design coherence, the driveway pavement and gravel also feature the characteristic beige-gray dolomite stone, lending an elegant yet warm neutral tone.
More info at: https://www.hhvh.de/
Photo: Hahn Hertling von Hantelmann