Grand Gardens in the City
Guilford, Maryland
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“This is a place that I enjoy returning to again and again. There is always something new and exciting happening and growing in the gardens. It is a pleasure to work with clients who have such a passion for the landscape.” —Jack Leonard, JGL Design | |
Elegant outdoor rooms for all aspects of grand urban living.
Site
- Located in the established and exclusive community of Guilford, Baltimore, MD.
- Large lot with a sizable side yard.
- Back is partially enclosed by a seven foot high brick wall.
- Significant drainage problems.
- Existing nondescript plantings struggling due to site conditions.
- Several mature trees to remain and be protected.
- Swimming pool was under construction.
Client Program
- Outdoor entertaining frequently with large and elaborate affairs.
- Avid gardeners spending considerable time outdoors.
- Long term stewardship and legacy of their property.
- Accentuate the house architecture and integrate it with the landscape.
- Front entry as an inviting place to greet guests and have casual interactions with neighbors.
- Entertaining, gardening and contemplative spaces with a combination of formal and natural areas.
- Hot tub with year round usage requiring privacy and easy access to the house.
Design and Results
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A series of garden rooms reflect the character of the house and integrate with its interior flow and function.
- The front “Foyer” is separated from the street with a low brick wall and guests are embraced by elegant and formal plantings.
- Formal entertaining is focused in the “Great Room” and “Ballroom.” The “Great Room” supports large groups and features a fountain and stone patio and the large lawn provides space for recreational activities that spill over from the “Recreation Room.” The “Ballroom” is very formal with displays of statuary and garden ornaments and a window seat arbor that overlooks the pool.
- The “Recreation Room” is informal and festive and meant for active play around the pool and bar and lounging under the pergola.
- The “Spa” contains the hot tub and is a sensual, relaxing and intimate private hangout.
- The “Study” is a place to be alone or in a small group for contemplation, inward focus, quiet and refuge in a natural environment.
Plantings reflect the character and function of each garden room and create the walls and doorways which both separate and connect the rooms.
Lighting illuminates the garden rooms, accents plantings and statuary, highlights the house and arbors, and brightens pool, patio, bar and walk areas.
Featured in Baltimore Magazine in article The Caretakers (PDF).
Project Team
- JGL Design Associates, Landscape Architect
- Northbrook Landscape, Landscape Contractor