How do you design a landscape book suitable for its intended uses? How can the natural qualities of a landscape be enhanced with new features and focal points? How can you make pedestrians stay on the footpath? What kind of plant, path or wall should you put where, and what sort of contract should you choose for your client's contractor? This refreshingly down-to-earth introduction to the vast subject of landscape design and construction answers all these questions, guiding new students through the many facets of professional practice and welding together the artistic, legal, financial, environmental and management issues which can seem so dauntingly disconnected. Illustrated with original drawings, photographs, sample plans and facsimiles, including a new colour plate section, this readable classic has been fully revised and updated throughout. It opens with a completely new chapter which explains design and aesthetic principles, explores the history of our relationship to landscape, and shows how design principles can be applied to influence reactions to the finished site. The author then considers different elements of hard landscape and their relative merits in different situations. The soft landscape section includes coverage of the effects of mass and form, natural and abstract planting, and the difficult subject of plant selection. A step-by-step guide through all the stages of managing a project, from initial discussions with clients, site inspection, surveying and quoting, through tendering, contracting, contractual agreements, development from concept design to final plans and drawings, as well as maintenance, now includes the current information on CDM regulations and provides readers with a plain-speaking reference on client management and contractual administration. Added to the guide to drawing and lettering is an extensive section on computer-aided design. A bibliography and list of useful organization are also included.
Biography
One of a family of design writers, James Blake is founder and principal of James Blake Associates, a medium-sized practice of landscape architects. He has over 20 years' experience in landscape design in both urban and rural schemes and has managed a wide variety of commissions for both.
Reviews of the first edition: ’...an easily digestible book with a lot of interesting content...I recommend it.’ Desmond Sivell, Sheffield University, UK ’A very informative read...I am most impressed by this wonderful book...The well thought out and up-to-date theories on design make this a truly ground breaking book. I look forward to visiting some of the author's schemes to see just how he has put some of this excellent theory into practice. A sharp, well illustrated and often very witty insight into front garden design, well done James Blake!’ Giles Hill ’This book is a must for any student or young designer because it actually deals with the absolute basics of how to draw and what to use...James Blake's approach is thorough and honest - tackle and master the rudiments before going on to the more sophisticated...Overall, James Blake has produced a very useful book in its category and it will go a long way to help students and young designers.’ Landscape Design
