Many people assume that a native plant garden must be a monotone jungle. Nothing could be further from the truth!
The mid-Atlantic region is blessed with an unusual diversity of local plant species that easily lend themselves to a variety of garden styles and color palettes, from naturalistic to formal and from hot to cool. Garden style should accord with client preferences as well as on-site architecture – though there are no hard and fast rules.
Formal landscapes emphasize order and symmetry, with geometric patterns and a restrained color palette. Think Versailles and Hampton Court. This style pairs well with colonial, neoclassical, Victorian and beaux arts style homes.
Transitional landscapes blend formal structure with the more spontaneous, colorful elements of traditional British cottage gardens. This style is typified by the designs of Gertrude Jekyll and Beatrix Farrand. This style matches particularly well with Craftsman and Tudor revival style homes.
Modern landscapes emphasize bold, asymmetric forms and the sculptural quality of plants, with palettes ranging from monochromatic to motley. Famous modern landscape designers include Thomas Church and Roberto Burle Marx. This style pairs particularly well with modern style homes.
Naturalistic landscapes feature curvilinear shapes and diverse plant palettes, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Exponents of this style include William Robinson and Frederick Olmsted. Naturalistic gardens can pair well with any style home.
Oriental style gardens draw on Chinese and Japanese influences, emphasizing artful arrangement of stone, wood, water and plants. Tea Gardens transform a small urban space into a restorative oasis with a few minimal elements. Larger sites can accommodate a Stroll Garden, where a contemplative path winds through a miniaturized landscape.
Tropical style gardens emphasize lush plant life with pendulous foliage and exuberant blooms. While the mid-Atlantic climate may not support palm trees and bougainvillea, the abundance of local species allows for creation of similar effects. This style pairs particularly well with Spanish colonial style homes.