Drawn to schemes that preserve and enhance the nature and character of their sites. Succesful spaces are always treated with a subtle approach, one that frames the character and unique features that give a site its individuality. Non-destructive elements of design such as boardwalks and viewing platforms create separate spaces for humans and nature.
‘Messy ecosystems, orderly frames’ is a philosophy coined by Joan Nassauer. This philosophy involves giving nature the space and freedom to develop as it will and only controlling it in terms of the space allocated for it. Neat, hard edges create a clear boundary and make the chaotic nature acceptable to the human eye. This is all part of designing for biodiversity and habitat creation, which is key. A plan which can increase the viable habitats for a multitude of species is essential, especially as the space left for wildlife in our world is increasingly reduced.
Regarding garden design, the herbaceous perennial movement has had a strong influence regarding approach to garden creation. Embracing the beauty of native and ecologically supportive flowering plants right through into winter as the dead flowers and seed heads create a drama of their own. Bold, striking flowering species planted in swathes within a sea of perennial and evergreen grasses. The relatively low maintenance, beautiful 'wild' meadow aesthetic combined with the ecological benefits these planting schemes offer fascinates.
