Synopses & Reviews
Over the course of the twentieth century many of the best garden designers have looked to the past for inspiration; with the approach of the millenium, however, a fresh approach to garden design minimalism has moved to the forefront. Minimalism, rooted simultaneously in classicism and modernism, has had a strong influence on architecture and interior and graphic design, as well as landscape. Minimalist gardens, with their emphasis on clean lines, pure form, and a strong sense of space, are closely related to contemporary architecture and lifestyles.
In this beautifully illustrated volume, award-winning garden designer Christopher Bradley-Hole has drawn together a great variety of minimalist gardens from around the world large and small, urban and rural. The projects are grouped into thematic chapters, including the landscape garden, pools and water gardens, courtyard gardens, and terrace and roof gardens. Among the designers are Vladimir Sitta, John Pawson, Luis Barragan, Seth Stein, Jacques Wirtz, Tadao Ando, Martha Schwartz, Shodo Suzuki, and Isamu Noguchi.
The author introduces the philosphy of minimalism in gardens and related arts and discusses the world-wide development of parallel trends in more relaxed and ecologically aware planting. The presentation of individual gardens reveals the inspiration behind each one, the relationship of space and proportions, and the frequent use of unusual materials and imaginative planning. Also included are directories of materials and plants for the perfect minimalist garden.
About the Author
Christopher Bradley-Hole was trained as an architect and received a graduate degree from the Architectural Association in London in the study and conservation of historic gardens and landscapes. His own garden designs range from small city courtyards to immense country estates.