My neighbor on the top floor of my building is named Ramon. He is retired, and as such, has time to do things that most of us would love to do. Ramon has done something wonderful for our building here in Astoria, just a few minutes, on foot, from the famed Kaufman Astoria Studios: He has cultivated something of a front stoop garden.

About 4 years ago, my landlord decided to gate in our building. He thought it would deter vandalism. None of us were thrilled about the gate. But Ramon saw it as an opportunity to start a garden!

This photo really can’t do this garden any justice, but believe me, many people stop to look at the beauty that Ramon has created for us.

Here are some items from the {NewNew} to inspire your own urban garden:

Left to right: Tissue Cozy by muppetloon.etsy.com, Lily Photo by SpinachNPeace.etsy.com, Hooded Capelet by Thirdfloor.etsy.com

by Lorina Pellach-Ladrillono of The Original Beadscarf & beadscarf.etsy.com