The municipality of Ede and the DOE Foundation gathered ideas from the residents of Ede for the redevelopment of Market Square. Subsequently, a competition was written to translate these ideas into a design. HOSPER won this competition and translated these wishes, in combination with specific preconditions due to the underlying parking garage and the market.

Strengthening the identity of Ede

The centre used to have a green and village-like character. Large trees and hedges were everywhere. This historic green character is the inspiration for the renewal of Market Square. New, modern Overtuinen – detached gardens across the road – with hedges and trees are being introduced. These, with their leafy character and their recreational function, refer to the Overtuinen of the former hotel ‘Hof van Gelderland’.

Multifunctional meeting place

The large open space of Market Square is delineated with the planting of natural ‘Overtuin gardens’ and small-scale spaces. There is space for various functions and activities, such as the market, small-scale events, terraces and playgrounds, both on the square and in the Overtuinen.

Anchored in centre and surroundings

With the Overtuinen, a sequence of green spaces is created: from the Veluwe via the city park and the old church square to the Market Square. The many passageways between the Overtuinen provide inviting connections between Market Square and the adjacent streets. In this way, Market Square is a cosy place for meeting and activity in a green area.

The design

The Overtuinen are slightly raised and surrounded by hedges which give them their own environment. There is a good view of the square and the trees get sufficient space for their roots. The trees are exactly on the columns of the parking garage, so the existing construction is able to support them. Small water fountains are laid out in the centre of the square and are widely used by children and adults. From the benches on Market Square, you have a view of the Overtuinen, the square with the fountains and the church.

Large trees provide a pleasant spatial effect and introduce a human size to make the space comfortable. Also, the flowerbeds provide a pleasant place to stay for humans and animals. The planting reduces the wind, giving sheltered and sunny places to stay. In addition, it also reduces heat stress and creates new habitat for birds and insects.