Gardens in Detail by Emma Reuss
As Heard on The Daily Gardener Podcast:
Gardens in Detail by Emma Reuss
This book came out in 2014, and the subtitle is 100 Contemporary Designs.
Gardens in Detail is a horticultural indulgence, a feast for the eyes, and a balm for the soul.
Emma Reuss, with her discerning eye and lyrical prose, invites us on a global journey through 100 contemporary gardens, each a masterpiece of design and artistry.
Do you ever wish you had an expert who could help you analyze the elements of a successful garden?
Well, in this book, Emma Reuss is that person.
Emma quickly defines the seven principles that make gardens go from meh to wow:
- Location: the spirit of a place
- Unity: using themes to unite components
- Simplicity: a fixed amount of complexity - a limited palette - to keep small spaces interesting and large places manageable
- Balance: garden elements should have the same visual weight
- Proportion: the scale of elements
- Rhythm & Repetition: re-introducing elements to promote even more unity
- Focal points: to enhance views and encourage people to move through the garden
Each garden is presented with stunning photographs, accompanied by insightful commentary that illuminates the designer's intent and the underlying principles at play. From the choice of plants to the placement of paths, every element is carefully considered and explained. Emma's meticulous attention to detail is evident in every page.
From the serene tranquility of an Islamic garden to the vibrant exuberance of a Mughal paradise, this volume offers a kaleidoscope of styles and inspirations. Whether you're captivated by the minimalist elegance of a Japanese Zen garden or the romantic charm of an English cottage garden, you'll find something to stir your imagination.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply an admirer of beautiful spaces, Gardens in Detail is an invaluable resource. It's a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration, a book that will spark your creativity and elevate your appreciation for the art of garden design.
Each of the gardens featured in the book is reviewed over four pages, which offer photos, general information, a brief essay, highlighted elements, and a bulleted list of successful design elements.
If you're the kind of gardener who draws Inspiration from garden images or garden tours, this book is for you. More than anything, Emma's book is an idea book - a banquet of successfully designed gardens and unique garden elements to inspire you to dream bigger dreams than emperors - as the saying goes about the plans of gardeners.
So, let's embark on a horticultural adventure together. Open the pages of Gardens in Detail and allow yourself to be transported to a world of lush landscapes, fragrant blooms, and timeless elegance. Your garden will never be the same.
SI HORTUM IN HORTORIA PODCASTA IN BIBLIOTEHCA HABES, NIHIL DEERIT.
