Les Jardins de Mathieu, Cotonou, Benin
The park “Les Jardins de Mathieu” has been built at the former residence of President Mathieu Kérékou. The government in Cotonou has expressed the need for additional green park spaces, reduced paving, and the implementation of greening measures to prevent heat stress.
The design of the park was inspired by beautiful African textile patterns.
It is among the first public parks in Cotonou, a serene and easily accessible city park spanning three hectares. The park showcases a formal area designated for ceremonies and wreath-laying, transitioning on its sides into a city park with shaded seating areas nestled beneath the trees.
The park is comprised of three parts: a formal square in the middle, centrally located green flower beds with a formal design, and on the edges, it transforms into a lush green oasis.
The paved square houses a monument in the shape of an obelisk called the “Monument aux Dévoués,” paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the colonial period.
The formal square is paved with a geometric pattern using two shades of natural stone, with two slotted drain channels forming subtle lines that are beautifully integrated into the decorative pattern.
Existing trees have been integrated into the new design as much as possible, supplemented with new native species, such as Spathodea, Delonix, and Erythrea.
The planting consists of large plots with the same type of plant, selected for their leaf shape and flowering to create a beautiful contrast.
Towards the edges, the park transforms into a green oasis with meandering walkways and lush plantings.
The paths are made of natural stone, laid in the same direction throughout the park. They are raised ten centimeters above ground level to prevent visitors from getting wet feet during the rainy season. Rainwater is discharged towards the flower beds, where it then infiltrates into the soil.
A transparent, decorative fence with entrances on both sides surrounds the park. Parking lots are located on the west and east sides.
Concrete benches have been placed along the garden’s gracefully designed paths. These benches slope down to the ground level on both ends. The rest of the furniture features a timeless design and monochromatic color scheme. Beautiful post-top lighting fixtures line the paths, and on the square, there are taller light poles with spotlights that illuminate the square and the monument. The lighting operates on solar energy, making it sustainable. The trees in the formal part of the garden are illuminated from ground level.
The undergrowth consists mostly of green leafy plants with red accents in sunny spots. There is a wide variety of vegetation, which promotes biodiversity. All plants are also locally grown. The trees provide shade, making the green park areas pleasant for the residents of Cotonou, where temperatures hover around 32 degrees Celsius. The density of the vegetation is high, creating a true oasis within a few years.
location: Cotonou, Benin
design: 2019
realisation: 2022
client: Ministère du Cadre de vie et du Développement durable
in collaboration with: Rod’or Advies