Landscape Design
Landscape design is probably the most expansive design discipline. It can range from the wide open parkland, forests even deserts can be moulded and changed in form. Yet at the same time landscape can be just the small garden or patio. Scale changes but the principles remain the same.
A Landscape designer or architect needs an extensive knowledge of the visible plants, shrubs and trees and well as grassland. In order to select and nurture these, the invisible needs to be well understood. Things like the soil, sub-soil, drainage as well as the climate, the prevailing wind are all to be considered. Working with ‘mother nature’ rather than trying to fight against it.
The first garden to be noted in literature was the Garden of Eden, outstanding for its perfection in form its perfect balance of nature, wildlife and provision of every sort of food. This garden looked after itself, the envy of every landscaper and gardener ever since.
History reveals that the berth of civilization and cultivation of the land was centred in the ‘fertile crescent’ between the rivers Tigris and Euphrates. Little wonder as water and irrigation are fundamental requirements of any successful landscape design.
Since cultivation has been closely linked with the production of food rather than just aesthetics it is no wonder the garden location has been close to the architectural buildings such as homes. The other main area would be public buildings such as temples and palaces. In fact one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world was the ‘Hanging Gardens of Babylon’ an amazing man made structure containing plants and trees with water features to rival any modern day effort.
On whatever scale the artist works the landscaped garden gives universal pleasure and whatever culture or heritage we posses we can appreciate such beauty in form.
Garden Design
All gardens need an element of design. Even those that look rambling and natural are often designed to look that way with much thought and no little effort. The skill of the garden designer is to know your plants, soil etc. Planting the right plant in the right place is crucial. Integrating paths, walls, wooden structures like a garden bench to make an exciting, peaceful and pleasant place to spend some time.
Architectural Plants
Any major landscape design will have the dramatic effect of the architectural plant. Transforming the space by giving it living structure all year round. Often exotic in nature they draw the eye into the design and accentuate the surrounding foliage.
Garden Fountains
Water is the lifeblood of most gardens especially if you want a lush green garden. The cool sound of a waterfall splashing onto rocks. The refreshing spray from a garden fountain. No garden design would be complete without a water feature. Even the desert garden deserves its own oasis.