[A larger image of this, and several similar renderings on this page]
I was cleaning up a old stack of papers and I found this rendering. The above drawing and several others were made to conceptualize several vignettes seen from one main entertaining/gathering area.
This arbor was designed to be seen at the end of a long axis site line. A visual journey to pull the static observer along and bring them to this vignette. There was talk of this particular arbor over the surrounding another small sitting area, but that went away very quickly.
This arbor and surrounding planting were also designed to act as a backdrop for a rather large piece of statuary, or a 3 tiered-fountain. The plantings were also to act as a boundary and screen to help define the edge of this backyard space.
This vertical structure also acts as a end to the garden/refined space. By end I mean more than just defining the edge of the property. I mean something more important. I refer to the end; as in, “psychologically the end” In the participants mind and eye, I want them to have no doubt the this really is the end of the designed space-a clear definition, no wishy-washy planting, or weak structural element.
I’m designing a specific space to be in and enjoy, to focus on that moment and time. Yes, the borrowed view of what’s beyond is there, but where the viewer is . . . is in that space-right now.
Everybody talks about these new garden rooms, and outdoor kitchens, and all that stuff, but no one speaks to creating the boundaries (physically, or psychologically) which really create the space . . . to allow the participants to be in that moment of space and time . . . another world . . . if you will.
In conclusion, about this specific job.
I now remember a lengthy discussion between the homeowner and the contractor of record about budget numbers. some discussion about dis-agreement in the front yard which lead to a patio and wall being the only structures being built in the backyard. Too bad I would have liked to have seen how this would have turned out.
The Whispering Crane Institute 