“When you pursue your profession with passion, it doesn’t feel like work. And when you combine that passion with imagination and craftsmanship, you can bring any dream to life.”
Hello, I’m Willy Otto, founder of Groencoach. From a young age, I have been fascinated by nature and plants. That interest grew into a profession in which I design gardens, green roofs, and green spaces that are not only beautiful but also contribute to biodiversity and climate adaptation.
What began with garden projects evolved into larger-scale undertakings: from urban gardens and residential developments to green roofs, rooftop gardens, and parks.
In a densely populated country like Belgium, green spaces are essential for quality of life, biodiversity, and water management.
Today, I help private individuals, organizations, and government authorities design outdoor spaces that better address water, climate, and nature.
In addition to design and consulting, I also work on climate adaptation in urban environments.
For instance, I served as an independent climate consultant for the City of Antwerp’s ‘Eco-house’ (Ecohuis), where I guided individuals in making their outdoor spaces more climate-resilient.
Designing nature-based playgrounds and green learning environments is also part of this work.
Outside of my professional work, I am active as a nature guide with Natuurpunt. The management of nature reserves and parks serves as a tremendous source of inspiration for how we might design our own gardens and cities.
Through observation, study, and practical experience, I continuously deepen my knowledge. I enjoy translating these insights into concrete solutions for gardens, parks, and other green spaces.
Throughout my career, I have worked in various roles focused on greenery, energy, and climate. From landscape design and implementation to providing consultancy and guidance for larger-scale projects, each of these experiences has further deepened my perspective on nature, water management, and sustainable outdoor spaces.
City of Antwerp Park Management & Green Coach
Nature guide at Natuurpunt
Greenification Manager at The Lung Project
Independent climate consultant for Ecohuis City of Antwerp
Consultant and product manager for energy management, serving businesses, universities, and government organizations
Garden construction by Avantgarden – realization of garden projects for businesses and private residences
Education in Ornamental Horticulture and Tree Nursery, with a specialization in landscape construction
Groencoach combines a passion for nature, ecological expertise, and years of practical experience. Whether it concerns a garden, a green roof, a park, or a larger-scale project, every design begins by asking how nature, water, and human use can be brought back into balance. Would you like to make your garden or project climate-resilient and nature-inclusive?
