What started as a visit to our Japanese garden store for some authentic garden elements grew into a special garden project in Eindhoven. A couple was looking for suitable ornaments for their own Japanese garden. During a walk through our Japanese demo garden, they were inspired by a traditional Tsukubai arrangement with a Chozubachi water ornament and an Ikekomi stone lantern. These characteristic elements formed the starting point for a completely new garden design.

Initially, the residents wanted to design and build the garden themselves. After extensive consultation and expert advice, however, they decided to entrust the entire realization to us. This created the opportunity to not only incorporate some Japanese elements, but to create a cohesive, authentic Japanese garden.

For the design, we were inspired by the Kyomachiya Gardens in Kyoto, The characteristic inner courtyards of traditional Japanese town houses. These compact gardens are characterized by a carefully balanced composition of natural stone, landscaping, trees, and subtle architectural elements. A traditional Tsukubai, a stone lantern, and a naturally laid path of stepping stones together form a harmonious whole in which tranquility, simplicity, and refinement are central.

The design was received with great enthusiasm and approval by the couple. This made it possible to immediately start the construction of their own piece of Kyoto in Eindhoven.

The construction of this Japanese garden was entirely carried out by our respected Japanese gardener Mizuno-san. With his years of experience, traditional expertise, and sense of Japanese garden aesthetics, he took full responsibility for the complete realization himself. From the positioning of the natural stones to the placement of the plantings: every component received his personal attention.

The center of the garden is formed by the traditional Tsukubai configuration. The Chozubachi, a natural stone water basin, is fed by a bamboo water supply. Together with the characteristic Ikekomi stone lantern, it forms a charming composition that references the centuries-old Japanese garden culture. The carefully selected rocks and stones enhance the natural character of this arrangement.

The construction of the stone path and the distribution of trees, shrubs and ground cover plants also required a careful balance. Within the limited space, each element had to contribute to the correct proportions, natural depth effects and visual balance. In a small Japanese garden, the distances between elements, viewing angles and material transitions are particularly important.

By creating the garden entirely by hand and with attention to every detail, Mizuno-san managed to transform the original design into a convincing and harmonious whole. The result reflects the craftsmanship and meticulousness that are characteristic of traditional Japanese garden design.