What is a Sense of Place?
Designing a garden isn’t simply a matter of selecting plants and laying down pathways. It’s about creating a distinct space with a narrative; a space that feels naturally integrated into its surroundings, captures the essence of the space and its surroundings, resonates with the people who use it, and continues to thrive well into the future.
So let us look at how to design a garden with a strong sense of place...
How to Create a Sense of Place
The key to creating a strong sense of place in your garden is site analysis. In other words we want to understand the existing space, its surroundings and its heritage. This allows us to design a space that will thrive and one that has a distinct character and narrative sympathetic to its setting. This involves analysis of the site itself and a bit of computer research to fully understand the following characteristics before undertaking any design work:
Soil and Sun: It's important to look at the moisture levels in the soil, sunlight levels (whether it's full shade, semi-shade or full sun) and the pH levels of the soil. This enables you to select plants and materials that will be happy and look their best in the conditions that you have in your garden. Different areas of your garden will have different conditions so it's important to survey your whole garden. Conditions under a coniferous tree might might be dry and shady, whilst conditions abutting a house might be wet and shady.
Weather: As well as sunlight we also need to consider wind and rain. Both of these can potentially make a space pretty unpleasant. You might decide to use vegetation and structures to provide shelter or to buffer the space from winds. Alternatively, you might want to design your garden in a way that allows it to play with the weather. Planting in particular, designed well, can use the weather to great effect: grasses sway in the wind; seedheads look beautiful backlit by the sun; trees create stunning silhouettes on built structures; and stems look fairytale-like coated in the morning frost.
Exmouth Esplanade - here we used Rosa rugosa and Nassella tenuissima, both species that are well adapted for the harsh coastal environment. Nassella tenussima sways beautifully in the strong winds and passers by enjoy its tangibility.
Local Materials: It's useful to research the natural materials that are found in your local area. Use of local stone, timber and aggregates will give your garden a distinct character and allows your garden to sit comfortably within the surrounding landscape. You might also want to consider materials that are used at the front of the house, on the house itself and within the house. This allows us to tie different areas together and create continuity by using similar materials, or to define different areas by varying materiality.
History: The history of a space or its surroundings will often drive the narrative of your design. Forms, materials, structures, iconography, planting, the overall layout - almost anything can be designed in a way that reflects the space's cultural heritage and gives your garden a distinct character.
Local ecology: At Russell Godden Studio we pay particular attention to local ecology: looking at native plant, tree and shrub species that thrive nearby and using those where appropriate; understanding local fauna that might use the space and catering for these species; and if there are native species that are endangered it might be an opportunity to use those species.
Manor Gardens - here we used natives shrubs, including Viburnum opulus and Euonymus europaeus for ecological value. Not only do they provide fantastic structure and beautiful crimson autumnal foliage but they also provide fruit for the multitude of birds that visit the space.
Topography: Embrace the landform of the spaces itself and the surrounding landscape. If your space has hills, valleys, or slopes, use these to your advantage. They can create mystery, define different areas, and add interest compared to a completely flat space. Think about incorporating terraces, natural ponds, secluded alcoves or mirroring the topography of the surrounding landscape at a smaller scale.
Built Structures and Architecture: You could consider introducing features that echo the regional architectural style. Whether it’s a stone wall, a timber pergola, or a wrought iron gate, these details can tie your garden to the area's heritage.
Users: The layout, design and character of a garden is often driven by the people that use it. You know best how you will use your garden. Do you want a space for relaxation and contemplation? An inspiring space for artwork? Do you want a flexible space with moveable objects? Will you be growing produce? These considerations and others will all drive your design and layout.
Other Ways of Creating a Sense of Place: Usually we try to design spaces that are sympathetic to the local landscape, history and environment. However, you might decide you want a completely different narrative in your garden. For example, you might be influenced by a particular artwork, which determines the colour scheme, forms and textures of your garden. Ultimately, it's your garden, so let your imagination run wild!
Summary
Creating a garden with a strong sense of place involves more than just aesthetics. It’s about designing a space that feels intimately connected to its environment and holds deep meaning for its users. By embracing the natural landscape, reflecting local culture, ensuring functionality, adding personal touches, and allowing for growth, you can create a garden that’s both beautiful and profoundly significant.
At Russell Godden Studio, we’re passionate about designing gardens with a strong sense of place and that tell a story.
Get in touch for a free consultation to start the journey to creating your perfect garden.
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