Using water in the landscape
I love to see water in the landscape – whether it be a lake or a small bowl with a single water lily. This cover photo was taken in Bangkok by a very smart shopping centre. It’s such fun & very stylish which works very well in a public space such as this. It would cool you down in the Thai heat too if you felt the need!

I’ve used water in many of the gardens I’ve created as they form fantastic focal points or provide sound to soothe or smother, depending on what might be needed. Here I’ve actually used two in my courtyard in Henley on Thames. The pool provides focus & reflection, whilst the sound from the water blade creates drama & disguises the buzz of the town beyond the garden walls.

It’s not for everyone of course – they can be a bit of a faff to look after but providing you clean out filters as required & change UV bulbs once a year they are usually worth the trouble. Look at these simple ones – they all work in different ways & are so smart. I’m working on a few schemes at the moments that will include water features so have been on the lookout for inspiration. I’ve discovered these gorgeous tank style water features (middle image) that I may specify in Cor ten steel for one of my clients & I’m seriously thinking of having one of those here too in our own courtyard as it’s just so smart & simple.

On the other hand – some have the space for a lake. Here’s one part way through construction that I designed in Henley. Isn’t the reflection of the tree beautiful? This was a paddock before with a hedge running through, now it’s a fantastic place to sit, relax & enjoy the birdlife that comes to visit. The grand lake beside it is in France at the very fabulous Chenonceaux – Wow is all I can say!

I’m always looking out for new ideas & take photos on my travels. Here are classic examples I took in Paris & Bologna…Not always in the best of taste, but arresting & memorable. Most certainly a talking point!

Below are in my opinion very good taste indeed -all fabulous & so different. Go & visit Marylyn Abbot’s sensational garden to see this clever series of fountains in Hampshire (left photo) – West Green House – it’s National Trust so if you’re a member it’s free.. I’m a huge fan of her work. She does opera events too in the grounds through the summer with spectacular lighting.

Must dash now, I’m juggling so many projects & have a bit of a queue to be working on. I hope you’ve enjoyed some great photo’s & feel inspired!