Trees from above: meet the man breathing new life into garden design

Landscape architect Thijs Dolders is a firm believer that roof gardens add immeasurably to the liveability of cities

A 1,400 square metre roof garden designed by Thijs Dolders at the Ebben plant nursery in the Netherlands. Picture: Boomkwekeirj Ebben BV

Thijs Dolders is not afraid to experiment when it comes to garden design, especially when it comes to growing trees on a roof. Where many would shy away from the prospect, the skilled Dutch landscape architect positively revels in it.

“I don’t know if you could call it practical, but it definitely adds character and three dimensionality to a space, the same as in a garden. Trees block wind, create shade, and also from street ...