Posts Tagged ‘water gardens’
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…
Read MoreThe Power of Contrasts: a Cotswold Garden
Understanding the variety encompassed by the phase "English gardens" means fun adventures to explore formal gardens, cottage gardens, contemporary gardens and everything in between. It also means taking the road less traveled, visiting tiny suburban plots and wild hillside farms, historic estates and unassuming private gardens. As an English-born designer I'm always thrilled to share…
Read MoreA Fusion of Formal Design and Informal Abundance
Trebah is one of my favorite Cornish gardens and I've shared my previous visits on Facebook . The garden is perhaps best known for its breathtaking hydrangea valley, Gunnera Passage and a beautiful private beach which played a role in the preparation for the D-day landings, which explains why I included it in our recent…
Read MoreCaisson Gardens – a hidden gem
As our coach inched its way down the narrow country lane, the tall hedgerows of hawthorn and cow parsley on either side creating a leafy green tunnel, our sense of anticipation grew. When the coach could go no further, our adventurous tour guests hiked the last 0.2 miles on foot, before finally reaching the driveway…
Read MoreGarden Design: Mimicking Nature
I'm a firm believer that gardens should be experienced – not just observed. They should invite exploration and contemplation, pique our curiosity in some way. On my recent trip to the Hudson River Valley, I visited three public gardens that really spoke to me because they achieved this so well and did so, not by…
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