This Is Modern, More or Less
Sometimes, modern and contemporary design are confused. To make things even more complicated, back in the 1950s to 1970s, mid-century modern design was referred to as “contemporary”. Nobody was aware of or referenced the then-current times as mid-century. If it wasn’t Ranch, Colonial, or Victorian but it was new, then it was contemporary. Features in a modern landscape design vary, but here’s what they are and are not:
Gardens complement and enhance the home’s architectural designContinuity is good: Repeating colors, textures, materials, and shapesLines of the garden are clean and often echo those of the structureGeometric shapes are emphasizedThe design is clean and unclutteredColors in furnishings, walls, and plants are bold and striking or monochromeUse natural, local materials: Wood, stone, native plantsInclude a water feature for aestheticsCottage gardens with fussy plants like roses do not go in modern landscapeThis is not the space for rusted garden furniture or rocking chairs turned into planters
Got it? Enjoy a tour of gardens that all say “modern” in one way or another.
Touch: Through textured plants like the giant liriopeSound: A water chandelier was combined with IP-rated lightsSmell: Strong and pleasurable scents of an herb gardenTaste: Through gardens growing vegetables, fruit, and herbs
Two elements of the house are linked by a relaxing outdoor space designed by award winning garden designer Luciano Giubbilei. The calm city oasis features restrained planting, comfortable outdoor furniture, and a lovely reflective pool.
