New Nordic gardens : Scandinavian landscape design

Few people have difficulty conjuring images of modern Scandinavian design, whose influence over the past century has reached around the world. More difficult for many is imagining the quiet landscapes of the Nordic countries, which range from the flatlands of Denmark to the dramatic mountains and fjords of Norway. These majestic environments, combined with long summer days and light-poor winters, raking light and dense birch forests, have given rise to exceptionally refined examples of garden and landscape design. This survey presents the best gardens to have been produced in the region over the past ten years. Organized by themes that encapsulate the special ambience and lifestyle of the Scandinavian countries - Simplicity, Silence, Fragility, Nakedness, Attunement, Boldness, Openness and Care - each garden is presented through images and texts explaining its unique aspects and describing its particularly Scandinavian characteristics. The timelessness of Nordic design has proven itself around the world for many decades. Now it is time for the quality of its gardens and landscapes to come into the light.

Introduction

Simple: Scandinavian design values and basic principles

Silent: Playing with the captivating Nordic light

Fragile: Principles of planting and selecting plants

Pale: Using colour palettes for effect

Naked: Durability meets elegance in hard landscaping

Attuned: Creative opportunities through the seasons

Bold: Urban and environmentally friendly gardens

Open: A grow-your-own lifestyle close to nature

Caring: Stimulating spaces made for people to thrive