Discover Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart

In the Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart, you'll discover the life's work of one of the foremost garden architects of the last century. This municipal monument comprises no fewer than 30 impressive gardens full of inspiration. Since 1976, the gardens have been maintained by the Mien Ruys Gardens Foundation. There's a great deal of experimentation with horticultural materials, design, and plant species. Furthermore, there's also plenty to experience for children.

25,000 m² Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart

The 30 style gardens are spread over an area of 25,000 m² and are characterised by their experimental nature. Consequently, they provide a source of inspiration for both professionals and gardening enthusiasts. In addition, a serene tranquility prevails, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent surroundings in peace and quiet.

Garden architecture from 1924 to the present day

On 12 April 1904, Mien Ruys was born in Dedemsvaart, the daughter of Bonne Ruys. Her father was the director of the Royal Moerheim Nursery. Driven by her passion for the use of perennials in gardens and landscapes, Mien Ruys went on to head the design department of this perennial nursery later in life. She experimented extensively with both plants and forms in her parents’ gardens.

Town and Country Planning and Structural Engineering

Because foreign architects regularly stayed at Kwekerij Moerheim, Mien Ruys's interest in architecture was further spurred on. She followed training for this in Turnbridge Wells, England. But that wasn't all. In 1929, she went to Berlin to study at the College of Garden Architecture. Here, she became a true socialist due to the various developments in both political and cultural fields. In addition, she became increasingly interested in urban planning. After also studying architectural engineering in Delft, she later worked with various Amsterdam architects, including Gerrit Rietveld. Mien Ruys's work was and is characterised by simplicity and clarity, which you will certainly find reflected in the Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart.

‘Sloping Mien and Sleepers Mien’

During her lifetime, Mien Ruys was given two nicknames, which she owed to her pioneering role in garden design. For instance, she was nicknamed ‘Schuine Mien’ because of her skilful use of outdoor spaces. She designed planting beds, paths and terraces that were situated at an oblique angle to the buildings. This created a sense of contrast.

Mien Ruys was nicknamed ‘Bielzen Mien’ (Sleeper Mien) due to her use of railway sleepers in her garden designs. This trend was very popular throughout the Netherlands in the 1970s. She therefore enjoyed working with straight shapes such as rectangles and squares.

Children’s activities

For children, there’s a fun discovery trail through the Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart, but there’s plenty more to enjoy. There’s also a secret little wood where children can have fun playing in a real treehouse. Various children’s games are organised in the Kennishuis and the Tea House, and afterwards the children receive a lovely surprise. In short, the Mien Ruys Gardens offer a fantastic experience for everyone.

Dedemsvaart, Overijssel

You'll find the Mien Ruys Gardens in Dedemsvaart, in the province of Overijssel. This is about a forty-five minute drive from Hotel Restaurant ten Cate. Dedemsvaart is named after Baron van Dedem. This baron had a 40-kilometre-long canal dug for peat transport. We definitely recommend exploring the historically rich and beautiful surroundings of Dedemsvaart in addition to visiting the Mien Ruys Gardens. More activities in the Emmen area visit?