The Value of Negative Space in Design

'Cramscaping' may be fun in container gardens but the value of leaving open areas within the landscape cannot be overstated. Not every square inch of your garden has to be planted. Negative space refers to the areas that we don't plant. They are intentionally left open and are typically framed by "positive" elements such as…

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Designers Eye: using light in the garden

What do a cactus, swimming pool and a smoke bush have in common? Keep reading. I want to encourage you see gardens through a designer's eye: going beyond the 'can I grow that?', or in the case of a swimming pool 'that's nice but  don't have/want/need one'.  I promise that in every garden, large or…

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Your Garden Story – The Final Chapter

Think back to your favorite book. The introduction drew you in, you followed the key characters with interest as the story was woven through a series of events and in the final chapter you were left feeling…..what? Surprise because there was an unexpected plot twist that you didn't see coming? Contentment as you read the…

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Garden Chapters Unified

In this mini-design series of "telling your garden story" we've looked at the introduction (the entry sequence) and ideas for an overall theme. Today I want to explore ways to help you strengthen your narrative by unifying the individual garden chapters using repetition. There's a balance between allowing each distinct garden area have its own…

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Garden Themes Part 2: Historical Fiction & Cultural Connections

In this mini  design series I've been challenging you to think of your garden as a personal story. We've covered the introduction and two popular themes; a romance and mystery already. This week we'll look at two additional themes you may like to consider. Historical Fiction Do you enjoy those tales of medieval mischief or…

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