In the enchanting suburb of Oosterwold, located just east of Amsterdam in Almere, a remarkable living experiment is thriving. This vibrant community, the newest city in the Netherlands, is home to 5,000 residents who are reaping the benefits of a sustainable, green lifestyle. Here, individuals have the freedom to design their homes as they wish, with the delightful requirement that half of their land must be dedicated to growing food.

Jan Eelco Jansma, a dedicated Dutch researcher who advocated for urban agriculture in Oosterwold, beautifully highlights the community's uniqueness: “This rule … is very unique thinking in the world, and makes it also an outstanding area in many ways.”

The landscape of Oosterwold is a picturesque tapestry of greenery, where each plot tells a different story. For instance, resident Marco de Kat cultivates a thriving 800-square-meter garden filled with a variety of fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, peppers, basil, beets, and cauliflower. What’s truly special is that no two homes are alike; every resident interprets the 50% rule in their own creative way, whether it be through greenhouses, pastures, or even sprawling apple orchards. As de Kat joyfully notes, “Nobody is doing it in the same way.”

Another inspiring figure in this community is Jalil Bekkour, whose life took a transformative turn upon moving to Oosterwold. With no gardening experience, Jalil embraced the challenge and, in just three years, opened Atelier Feddan—a restaurant that embodies the essence of “farm to table.” His journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to cultivate their own gardens. “The first thing I tell people is to start small,” he advises, “Start with the things you love to eat.”

Oosterwold shines brightly as a model of sustainability and creativity, inviting others around the globe to take inspiration from its practices. It’s a place where community, nature, and innovation harmoniously intertwine, fostering a spirit of goodness and joy.