American latest residential landscape design record (Photos, color photos)

Author: James G. Trulove (USA)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-03-01
Features: The task of landscape designers often involves addressing a series of problems caused by poor site selection, subpar architecture, or unpredictable climate changes. Wise builders often hire both landscape designers and architects simultaneously, understanding the importance of analyzing the building site before, rather than after, excavating the foundation. To them, these two roles are equally important in the design process, with the same level of attention invested in selecting a residential site as in constructing the building. They also know that, just as architects are chosen based on design style, landscape designers should be selected similarly. This book attempts to highlight the significant role of landscape design in residential design by showcasing the masterpieces of 27 of the most creative and successful American landscape designers today. As a companion to American New Villa Design, this book also employs a case study approach to examine 60 residential landscapes. Unlike most books on residential landscapes, this one not only presents breathtaking and exquisite residential landscapes to readers but also explores how these landscapes were built and under what conditions they were completed. Each case study includes the landscape designer's design philosophy, the owner's various needs, and how the final design meets those needs. In most cases, the total plan of the residential landscape is provided, along with detailed descriptions of the main plants used, hardscape materials, and the surrounding soil and climate conditions. Selecting the landscape designers and their works to feature in this book was a daunting task, and the final examples cannot possibly encompass all outstanding works. However, overall, readers will gain a clearer understanding that extraordinary vitality and creativity are the cornerstones of contemporary American residential landscape design. The residential landscapes introduced in this book vary in style, ranging from whimsical ideas to wise insights, from avant-garde creativity to traditional reproductions. Although landscape design is often less well-known than other professions, many of the landscape designers featured in this book have a large number of loyal followers in the United States and even internationally. Some of these designers are seasoned industry professionals whose works are widely promoted in magazines or specialized books, while others are still further developing their careers. But each is committed to creating inspiring residential landscapes, providing valuable references for those who appreciate man-made landscapes.