Garden Design & Architecture

I hope you are all having a great weekend, friends! As the weather seems to be turning for the better, I am reminded of the garden, so full in blooms and so fragrant. I'm very thankful that peonies are in full bloom as they are my favorite flower...I feel that a peony captures my two favorites: roses and tulips. There's nothing like pretty flowers and plants...which brings me to this post, ideas offered by an avid reader...

Beyond appreciating the plants themselves, using carefully planned forms of structure throughout the garden can add a touch of architectural interest and dimension, as well. A stone floor setting for a seating area, fountains, ponds, and even separate buildings for entertainment. It's also wonderful to take inspiration from interior decor and bring it into the outdoors— simply by hanging a chandelier, curtains, or even arranging some vases on a table. I also thought that an old, weathered, unusable piano would be beautiful, set under a willow tree...with perhaps roses blooming around it. *Feel free to click on the images to see them much larger.

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"The first purpose of a garden is to give happiness and repose of mind."

"Design with plants is the ultimate art of the gardener, but design of the spaces between plants is just as important."

"The ideal is a garden that fits the habits of the household and at the same time makes the most of its site; that works as outdoor living space and yet, uses the relevant recourses of nature to make it beautiful, refreshing and inspiring."

— Hugh Johnson from his excellent book "The Principles of Gardening"

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If I had to select a favorite, I would say that fountains are my favorite architectural feature in the yard. Particularly ones that have almost a tub shape to them, such as in photo 05. Although, how cute are those hanging vases! Do you have a favorite?

For further inspiration, check out these links:

01 HSP Garden Buildings—they are architectural bliss!
02 Chinoiserie Chic—her post on sheds is a must-see / I purchased the recommended book and received it on Friday—can't wait to go through it!
03 European Garden Design—a masterful company that offers architectural and design services centered around the garden. Their work is absolutely amazing...


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