“I believe that gardens offer us something beyond the material world. They provide a spiritual component allowing us to participate in the wonder and mystery of creation.” Gordon Ford
A Landscape Designer considers client needs, preferences and budget and also identifies site potential regarding practical elements including property layout, style, size, geography, soil and weather conditions.
This front garden is a re-design in a Melbourne suburb; keeping some plants and aspects and adding key components to create supportive ecosystems. Urban Landscape Design has the ability to influence species biodiversity by emulating nature's systems and patterns. Human perspective of aesthetics are designed in with form, shape, textures and also consider what the owners are personally attracted to, what stimulates their senses and creates a sense of wonder, awe, relaxation and healing.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed and have my senses put into order” -John Burroughs
Desirable outcomes of the project include planting indigenous plants which have proven to be resilient to the local conditions and support and maintain the existing local animal and insect populations. Diversity of plants is important to support biodiversity of plants species and also provide food and habitats to support insect and animal life. The additional indigenous plantings are proven to have adapted with very little human intervention after being established; they are primarily self-sustaining and do not need a lot of maintenance.
The dry creek bed design supports effective use of rainwater which reduces the impact on our storm-water infrastructure system, reduces toxins entering our bay and provides the plants the garden with a slow released fresh water supply. Fresh water is healthier for plants as it does not contain chemicals that our drinking water does for human consumption. We are also not reliant on or paying for drinking water to maintain this garden after an initial establishment.
The pond will act as a reservoir for the overflow of rainwater and provide a water source and hopefully a frog habitat. It currently contains a native water lily and will have other wetland plant species added to the design while maintaining a safe walking path beside it.
“We must feel part of the land we walk on and love the plants that grow there if we are to achieve a spirit in a garden.” Gordon Ford
What is a feeling of spirit and aliveness in a garden?
The concept of ecopsychology is closely related in my garden designing as it acknowledges the interconnectedness of all living entities, including plants and humans. Garden design should incorporate a diverse range of elements to create a vibrant and living space. The garden should be viewed as a living entity, with various plants and non-human entities interacting with each other and with humans. This creates a sense of balance and harmony, which supports the life systems present in the garden. When humans connect with the garden in this way, it can evoke a sense of awe and beauty, stimulating their senses, feelings, and emotions. The overall effect is a living, thriving space that benefits both humans and the natural world.
More: