New Japanese Gardens at The Meijer Gardens to Begin Construction Soon

Plans for The Richard and Helen DeVos Japanese Garden are ahead of schedule.  In fact, construction will begin in mid-July because the $22 million fund raising campaign goal has been reached.

One of the most revered and deeply appreciated international garden styles, the 8 1/2-acre addition will further the Meijer Gardens dual mission of horticulture and sculpture.

Tranquility, simplicity and beauty are the very essence of a Japanese garden.  The Meijer Gardens dedication to horticulture, sculpture, nature and the arts will be greatly enhanced by such a garden. Based in centuries of philosophy and tradition, the Japanese garden is widely admired as among the most artful horticultural practices. Fred and Lena Meijer had long appreciated the traditions and experiences of the Japanese garden. In 2009, Fred Meijer shared his and Lena’s love of Japanese gardens and asked about adding one to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

During the planning process, it became quite apparent that the concept was universally popular with horticulture and culture enthusiasts alike, but general audiences as well. In keeping perfectly with the mission of Meijer Gardens, a Japanese garden would not only be popular with members, volunteers and supporters, but with the more than 550,000 guests that visit the organization from across the globe. The universal response to Meijer's inquiry was resoundingly positive.

What an exciting addition to a, already world-class Botanical Gardens and Sculpture Park.  We can't wait.