Yolande Coop S.I.S.

Located on the banks of the Moselle River, the Butterfly Garden, a true tourist gem, has recently undergone a major transformation with its complete renovation. The greenhouse, built in 1989, had aged over the years, bearing the marks of time and the approximately 38,000 visitors welcomed on average each season. Thus, the decision to renovate became inevitable.

Despite the fact that maintenance work and small renovations have been carried out over the years to keep the garden in good condition, a complete overhaul was necessary to breathe new life into this space. Major elements such as bridges, paths and the construction of large animal terrariums were redesigned from scratch.

The completion of this project was finished just in time for the opening of the 2024 season, on March 29th. However, the path to this transformation has not been without difficulties. Finding a company willing to take on the unique challenge of renovating a tropical greenhouse with its specific climatic conditions has been a real challenge. But once the ideal partner was found, the project went smoothly without any major hiccups.

During the construction phase, the garden team had to demonstrate adaptability by reorganizing their usual activities. Some employees have been redeployed to other workshops of the Yolande Coop societal impact company to support artisans, offering an enriching experience for all.  

Maud Hansen, director of the Butterfly Garden, shares her experience: "The renovation of the garden has been an exciting challenge, but also rewarding. We have worked hard to create a space that amazes our visitors while preserving the natural beauty that is the reputation of the garden."

The greatest satisfaction lies in the complete transformation of the garden. The arrival of the new bridges was a key moment, just like the design of the vast terrariums that will enhance the visitor's experience. 

This achievement taught the project's protagonists the value of patience and perseverance. Two years of preparation were necessary before the start of the work, highlighting the importance of careful planning and trusted partners sharing the same vision.

The long-term goal is to ensure the sustainability of this popular tourist attraction on the banks of the Moselle River. Maintaining the number of visitors at over 38,000 per season is a realistic ambition, with the hope of building a loyal and increasingly satisfied customer base.

The motivation behind this project is twofold: to provide meaningful employment to individuals with intellectual disabilities and to offer an unforgettable experience to tourists, who are invited to discover the beauty of butterflies, plants, and tropical animals.