Nekkeveld estate
The Polder oasis Nekkeveld estate is an area located in the urban heart of Holland, the Netherlands, near Amsterdam. This green oasis is situated in the delta of the Dutch Randstad, at the foot of the former Zuiderzee dyke and near the drowned Castle Hulkestein, now lake Nijkerkernauw. The natural status of the area is protected for its flora and fauna (water and meadow birds) by regional and European law: Natura 2000. The notability of Nekkeveld estate in this respect is acknowledged by the independent governmental waterboard "Waterschap Vallei en Veluwe", stating this "(...) improves ecosystems for water animals  and meadow birds". Also, the governmental institution Staatsbosbeheer (Dutch Forestry Commission) specifically notified the project for its breeding results with the godwit, Holland's national bird. "God created the world, and the Dutch created: Holland (English saying)." Started in the late 20th century as the project NekkeveldEcoplus, in the first quarter of the 21st century the total area is about 150.000 square meters. The conserved old farm originates from medieval times. The area called 'green paradise' for living and creative purposes was built in 2009–architecture by Henk Leeflang, whose design has been praised for its natural match with the  polder landscape. Solar energy devices were added in 2013, making the project energy independent. Also the supply of drinking water has its own natural source. The built user area is approximately 3000 cubic meters. The State Secretary for Economic Affairs and the Minister of Finance officially (July 6, 2016) allowed polder oasis Nekkeveld estate the governmental recognition of classification by law according to the Dutch Natuurschoonwet 1928. The estate is a member of the Dutch Federation for Private Landownership. Founding father Sir Douwe Veldhuizen – van de Geest who now is in his sixties, is keen on stepping back in order  to make space and inspire younger talent. His part of the story is told in an online available book: "Polder oasis Nekkeveld estate–endless stories of creation and development". <poem> 'Polder poem: The godwits are back' "Grey and wet it still is" "But the lapwing birds are calling, they tumble and fly" "And despite rainy depressions" "Also the godwit is heard" "They make love" "Lapwing birds tumble" "And the hares dance" </poem> Inspiration. The project NekkeveldEcoplus is inspired by the work of the Dutch artist Marinus Adrianus Koekkoek