What do you think?
Rate this book
Elements of Garden Design
Elements of Garden Design does what few gardening books do--it addresses the process of conceiving a whole garden, as opposed to a single element like color or a particular class of plant. Joe Eck explores the idea of a garden, and offers a practical approach to translating concepts such as "intention" and "harmony" into the solid forms of hedges and terraces, paths and rooms. Novice and experienced professional alike will find both food for thought and down-on-the-ground advice on such matters as creating child- and pet-friendly designs.
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1996
9 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 7, 2023
“Nothing that is used for contrast in a garden ought ever to call so much attention to itself that it distracts from the whole. Elements of contrast must always be used with restraint. They are the spice to the dish, but no one would want to dine on cinnamon.”
May 31, 2018
The content is great, but I don't like the writing style.
Author Eck goes through the various elements that make a good garden: frame, pattern, texture, style, etc. It's very helpful.
But I wish the book were written in a more "bare bones" format. As it is, Eck's writing is too wordy. Lots of wandering stories and "and another thing" thoughts. I wish he made his points in a more straightforward way and left it at that. I still learned a lot, though.
Author Eck goes through the various elements that make a good garden: frame, pattern, texture, style, etc. It's very helpful.
But I wish the book were written in a more "bare bones" format. As it is, Eck's writing is too wordy. Lots of wandering stories and "and another thing" thoughts. I wish he made his points in a more straightforward way and left it at that. I still learned a lot, though.
August 13, 2010
One of the best books I have read for garden design. Yes it is filled with his opinions, but he also gives good reasons for the choices we make in a garden. He connects feelings with actions very well. It is inspiring.
February 11, 2019
Not a picture book - a discussion about elements of garden design and what makes for a beautiful garden.
May 18, 2019
This was more theory than I wanted... was hoping for more practical advice.
Read
November 3, 2019good book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2009
Great book that clearly outlines many principles of garden design. Not just a "XYZ" plant/landscaping book; this book outlines design principles so the whole garden can be unified and beautiful.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews