Garden Design ─ A Book of Ideas

A valuable and inspiring resource for both advanced and beginner gardeners.

"Leaving no stone unturned, the basic aspects of true garden design are touched upon in what I would call a 'garden journey' book. Heidi Howcroft and Marianne Majerus give the reader absolutely superb visual content on the options available when considering crafting your personal space."
-- Washington Gardener

Now in paperback, this must-have visual reference for garden owners features over 600 images of gardens and garden elements along with incisive advice on garden design. In pictures and words, it takes readers from concept through to execution of a personalized garden built on sound design principles.

The sample gardens shown are large and small, urban and rural, and in a wide range of styles. Every aspect of designing a garden is explored, from assessing a property to choosing a style, selecting the right components, such as landscaping and boundaries, and tackling more challenging spaces. A gallery of 22 case studies further illustrates how to design a personal paradise.

Each chapter instructs on numerous related topics and presents illustrative case studies:

• Basics: Where, Why and What: A Question of Style; Contemporary Design; Classical Design; Natural Design
• The Components: Structure, The Backbone of a Garden; Paths and Drives; Patios and Terraces; Enclosures and Barriers
• Shaping the Garden: Greenery and Flowers; Furnishing the Garden
• Difficult Plots and Tricks of the Trade.

The lavish spreads address one topic, such as paved patios, and offer a variety of photographs in different styles with concise practical text. The case studies inspire with imagery and information.

Garden Design: A Book of Ideas is an ideal resource for the home gardener. It will continue to inspire as the garden matures and changes over the seasons and years.

Heidi Howcroft worked as a landscape architect in Germany for many years. She is the author of over 20 books covering a wide range of garden topics. She lives in Somerset, England.

Marianne Majerus is one of the world's finest garden photographers. She is a regular contributor to many publications, including House and Garden and The Wall Street Journal. She has illustrated more than 50 books. Her numerous awards include International Garden Photographer of the Year 2010 and Garden Media Guild Garden Photographer of the Year 2011. She lives in London.