Inspiration, as we unintentionally pause, can easily be found on the internet. Reading to stir the creative mind is one act that can get us through. To have a book with examples of uniquely inspired green spaces is a gift. As I considered renovating my back yard, I knew I needed inspiration. Thank goodness for Gardenista – The Definitive Guide to Stylish Outdoor Spaces by Michelle Slatalla. The landscape of my dreams became an achievable reality as I read this book.
Every book has a mission. The mission of this book is to inspire and encourage the reader to create a green space of their own. Project size or the level of experience is not initially important. The contents of this book left me encouraged that I could create a space that reflected me.
There is a manifesto at the beginning of the book that defines ten Gardenista “Rules to Live By.” Logical, simple, and easy to remember, these rules were quite practical. There was a specific one that caught my eye.
#10
Choose personality over perfection, a little wildness in the garden is a good thing.
The Gardenista team consisting of Michelle Slatalla, Julie Carlson, and photographer Matthew Williams collaborated on a gift that encourages gardening. Connecting with nature is the theme. The authors believe in helping the reader develop confidence. Confidence in creating unique green spaces is shared in this book. Even the photography was amazing. Each example shared information on the unique concept of the homeowner. I found the information on how to emulate each theme quite helpful.
This book shares gardening from multiple settings. Each example exhibited unique perspectives of a particular style. One concept that I agreed with is getting outside and enjoying the garden. Most gardeners forget that enjoying the garden is a part of gardening. Balancing work and play in the garden can often be overlooked. From artfully curated examples of garden rooms, terraces, and places to pause, the inspiration flows on the pages of this book.
Hardscaping is one area that was difficult for me to decide. There are so many alternatives to choose from. The style of the garden chosen determines how the garden will be connected. What type of path makes sense? Will drainage be an issue? How will the owner’s taste be reflected in the landscape? These questions are all answered in Gardenista.
My favorite part of Gardenista is the ultimate DIY Work Space chapter. Inspirational and simple ideas like a foot shower or dog washing station can be found in this book. Using everyday supplies, the examples are easy to construct for the average homeowner.
Encompassing 100 Gardenista faves and ending with a full-bodied reference section, Gardenista is welcome on my bookshelf any time. The new gardener will find the included hints useful. A curious gardener is inspired to enhance an existing landscape. I would recommend this book as a terrific gift for any gardener.
Now to figure out how the foot shower works,
Teri, Cottage In The Court
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