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Beautiful by Design: Stunning Blueprints for Harmonious Gardens
What makes a garden special? Focal points that capture the eye, that turn each area into a habitat of graceful beauty, and that make a strong first impression. Using dozens of inspiring photographs, horticulturist Tara Dillard reveals the secrets of creating eye-catching arrangements that are elegant, not overdone, and that maintain their loveliness all year long. Find out how to choose a theme, make a splash with color, add garden art, install effective architectural pieces and furnishings, and make a big impact with just a little input. From trompe l’oeil illusions (including faux doors and windows) to recreating the first garden you loved, every idea here is top-quality.
128 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2006
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 7, 2013
I have been actively working on the theory over the past several years, that as we get older, the views of our gardens from our windows become more and more important. Consequently, I have been concentrating on what I can see from my doors and windows.
The author of this book has put this forward as an idea that she has never come across in a book. Me either! So I was excited to see it in print.
The biggest thing I learned from this book is to "Just let it touch." If you have a hardscape focal point, let some foliage touch the object and it will enhance it. I know this to be true from experience, but now I will be conscious of fixing some of my garden art to follow this concept more closely. I have several glass pieces that seem too naked sitting on a patch of mulch. I put one among some plants last summer with the plants partially hiding it, and it looked great. Now I know why!
The author also mentioned using mirrors in a garden, and suggested using "mirror mastic" to glue them to an object.
This didn't get a higher rating because of text mistakes. Page 48 highlights a concept, but it says "Gardens are about CONTRACTS in color, form and texture". Then there is the "pealing bark"- I can hear it now, can't you?
The author of this book has put this forward as an idea that she has never come across in a book. Me either! So I was excited to see it in print.
The biggest thing I learned from this book is to "Just let it touch." If you have a hardscape focal point, let some foliage touch the object and it will enhance it. I know this to be true from experience, but now I will be conscious of fixing some of my garden art to follow this concept more closely. I have several glass pieces that seem too naked sitting on a patch of mulch. I put one among some plants last summer with the plants partially hiding it, and it looked great. Now I know why!
The author also mentioned using mirrors in a garden, and suggested using "mirror mastic" to glue them to an object.
This didn't get a higher rating because of text mistakes. Page 48 highlights a concept, but it says "Gardens are about CONTRACTS in color, form and texture". Then there is the "pealing bark"- I can hear it now, can't you?
February 26, 2012
One of the best about overall garden design....not specific plants....but design and focal points.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews