We all are accustomed to seeing fences that hide the surroundings of houses, right? 🏠🛑 However, you won’t see one in the Netherlands! 🇵🇾 The more expensive the house is, the higher the fence, but the Dutch don’t even think to put up anything to block the view! 🧐😯 Tourists are still wondering why and now I will share the true reason in this article! 👇
In the Netherlands, it’s common to see beautifully maintained homes surrounded by open spaces, with no towering fences blocking the view. The tidy houses, colorful flowerbeds, and manicured lawns are displayed proudly without the barriers that are typical in many other places. For those of us accustomed to high fences that hide the surroundings, this openness can be quite surprising, yet it leaves a positive impression.
In contrast, in many countries, a fence is almost considered a necessity. The bigger and wealthier the house, the taller the fence, and even those with fewer resources often resort to makeshift barriers made from whatever materials are available. The Dutch, however, don’t think about putting up old boards or nets to enclose their yards. The reason? Strict building regulations in the Netherlands prevent such improvised designs. Even on private property, it’s not possible to construct anything you want without approval from the authorities.
For the Dutch, small gardens and flowerbeds around their homes are cherished and regarded as part of their national pride. Tending to lawns and trimming grass is something that many people do willingly, even if they’re not especially inclined to gardening. There’s a cultural expectation to keep these areas neat, and the community encourages this care.
Yards in the Netherlands are generally compact, as land here is precious. However, there are no rigid rules about what can be planted or how a yard is styled. Whether you choose flowers or a more minimalist stone garden, it’s up to you. That said, neighborhoods often follow certain design principles, and each area has its own distinct aesthetic. This is not just a suggestion, though; it’s an essential part of the rules for homeowners. The guidelines are included in contracts for purchase or lease. If you want to repaint your house, you’ll need approval from local authorities, and if the color doesn’t match the surrounding homes, you’re unlikely to get their approval. Violating these rules can lead to significant fines from the local government.
Why such strict regulations? Consistent house exteriors and well-kept gardens not only make neighborhoods more visually appealing but also raise property values. Beautiful, orderly areas are always in demand, and housing prices reflect this.
The lack of fences around Dutch homes may also be tied to their cultural and religious heritage. It reflects an openness and a lack of desire for privacy or secrecy. The Dutch tend to avoid closing off their spaces from the community, which may seem unusual to outsiders who are more accustomed to privacy and seclusion. The absence of curtains in windows, for example, is another sign of their openness.
In the Netherlands, the streets are inviting, harmonious, and orderly. The good news is that such beauty and balance can be achieved anywhere—if only there’s the will to make it happen.