I am Char Barnes, and I have been gardening at the same southwestern Connecticut house for more than twenty years. During that time it has gone from a neglected plot to a picturesque garden with paths and curved beds loaded with flowers. I have planted trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals.
Everything on this site is based on my personal experience and opinion, and I have plenty of both.
Clean lines with intricate surfaces. A soothing pallet with a pop of color. Modern, with respect to the history of the place. The primary objective was to make the space work for the entire family.
The view from the family room focuses on the natural beauty of the Shishgashiri Japanese maple while showcasing the welcoming versatility of the space. The tree is at the back corner of the garden and the eye is lead there by the arrangement of the furniture and the coral screens. This maximizes the perception of depth in the garden while the furniture and screens help widen it. The earthy celadon planters provide additional planting space while further uniting the garden spaces.
This drawing shows the view that will greet you as you descend the stairs. There is a comfortable seating area surrounded by Black Lace Elderberry, a dark, graceful plant that will be grown tall to provide a dark background. The plant's dark, finely cut leaves will provide a soothing and refined backdrop.