Challenge Four
Challenge Four (Episode 5)
DESIGN OF THE BODY OF THE GARDEN
The Body is the part of the garden that binds the overall look together the background. So while its not a feature in itself, it sets up the underlying foundation of the garden. It is often the planting or a lawn, but it could be fencing, paving or even a large body of water. The body of the garden should set off features and focal points rather than competing with them.
DO:
- Choose a body that will enhance the feeling that you are trying to achieve. For example, lawn creates a restful background to other features, planting will create a natural, lush feeling, and paving will create a more man-made, controlled environment.
- Think about layers and depth. If the body of the garden is all two-dimensional then the plants or features you add will stand out too much.
- Consider using a variety of heights and forms to give a greater sense of space and visual appeal.
- Aim to get the balance right in terms of size, material and shape, for example, too much lawn will make the garden feel empty, and not enough can make it feel overly cluttered.
- Use varying materials to clearly define your space and provide definition. For example, stone walls contrast well with lawns and help to set up clear definition.
- Remember the body can be a practical space, as well as what holds it all together visually, such as a large flat lawn or courtyard space.
- Think about the use of bold/ dramatic planting and colour if
the body of your garden is something simple like a lawn.
