BROOKLYN BROWNSTONES: SMALL GARDEN DESIGN
Brooklyn garden design is garden planning for a relatively small, private space.
Typical building plots average 100’ long by 20’ wide for Brooklyn brownstone properties and Brooklyn townhouse properties. Many of these brownstone yards are 40'-55' deep. Some have a terrace overlooking the yard. These small, but charming "jewelry box" size backyards with fences can become highly developed areas behind the house. This private area can be designed based upon functionality and programming. Some people want a private, serene area to use for relaxation and the enjoyment of weekend breakfast on the patio; others want a safe space for their unsupervised children to play in. A clever garden design can usually tick all the boxes of your wish list. Whether you create a vegetable garden or a garden retreat a garden designer can assist you.
Designing a garden begins with a plan.
Tucked away in the heart of the metropolis, these small sanctuaries of verdant nature are enclosed by fences and large apartment buildings. Challenges such as noise, lack of sunlight (at times), pollution and the eyes of curious neighbors all make these “giardino segrettos” (secret gardens) very difficult to create without a solid garden design plan. With a carefully designed garden plan, the lack of outward views will no longer be a limiting factor, rather an opportunity to take advantage of. Just think of all the beautiful medieval cloister gardens!
A garden design plan takes into account the opportunities and constraints of a site.
Some design solutions for difficult environments such as intrusive neighbors would be a vertical landscape design, in essence a vegetative screen. Harsh climates and microclimates can be addressed with native plants and understanding your plant zones. If a certain plant is “tender” it can be situated on a southern exposure close to the residence. Radiant heat of the building and obstruction of strong winds will temper freezing effects a few degrees.
Maintenance of a custom garden design.
Find garden inspiration for your brooklyn garden design by looking at contemporary garden design photos. It’s critical to remember that the gardening design should depend upon your lifestyle. People with hectic lifestyles may need to consider low maintenance gardens if they are not going to practice garden maintenance themselves or hire a garden maintenance company.
You can choose a garden style from among the many types, such as:
Whether it’s one of these styles or a combination you should have a garden design that works!
The design should:
Define the principal walkway and circulation
Create transitions by variations in level or material or perspective
Define garden rooms
Incorporate garden “nooks” to add complexity
Work with the surrounding landscape
Solve existing challenges
Address your needs and aspirations