207-312 Garden History and Contemporary Design

The objectives of this unit are intended to extend the participant's ability to:

• apply design principles to small scale landscapes;

• identify design styles of historical and contemporary garden landscapes and their relationships;

• demonstrate an understanding of colour, form and texture in planting design;

• demonstrate and describe the garden design process; and

• demonstrate an understanding of the maintenance implications of different landscape styles and detailing.

The content includes:

• design theory for small-scale landscapes includes classical and contemporary examples of garden design;

• an overview of historical garden design provides a stepping stone to 20th century design;

• contemporary designers presentation of their work;

• familiarisation with design principles and application of these to a small design project; and

• presentation of a design brief, site analysis and planning, hard and soft material selection and planting design.

A major report equivalent to 4000 words, 40% of final marks, a mid-semester theory test, 30% of final marks, and three tutorial assessments, 10% each of final marks.

• R Alexander and K A Batstone, A Handbook for Garden Designers. Ward Lock, 1994.