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Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Garden Diary: Brooklyn update

This is the first lesson of my initial foray into the Brooklyn garden:  plan views are just marks on flat paper. You don't get a sense of the space until you spend time in the garden, then the plans start changing, evolving. Banal, but  the realization feels like insight.

After a ten hour round trip to Schoharie, New York, last Thursday, I have my four long sought Sunburst honey locusts (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis 'Sunburst'). Mere whips, though seven feet tall with absolutely no branch structure -- a structure that will be much needed.  The locust canopy will be essential to block the view of buildings across the way. So a new plan:  what to do in the interim?


The second lesson? Clutter in a small space won't do.

But if you ignore the bags of compost, gardening tools, pots left from the previous garden (a tenant's), the watering hose, the red wagon, all the extraneous stuff, the original concept is visible:  the off-center axis (door center, pool, old concrete fountain as planter, a yet-to-exist structure at the back. The diagonal drift of box from far left to near right breaking across the straight lines of the axial layout, the neutral slate wall, reflections in the pool.

I intend to take care of housekeeping soon -- tool storage in the cellar, removal of the assorted pots to the country, disposal of plant containers and bags of compost and peat -- but some disorder will be necessary until the soil preparation is complete and the major plantings are in.

A screen at the back, to create a hidden maintenance area, has to happen sooner rather than later. Now that I'm working in the garden, I see my original plans for a screen are too large for the space. I need to shrink the wall, lower its height, make it feel lighter and more transparent (without actually being transparent). Make it simple. And make it fast. A cardboard mock-up may be in order.

I also want to minimize the view of the buildings opposite as quickly as possible (it's much more distracting in the photo than in reality). I came across some relatively low-priced fastigiate hornbeams in my search for the Gleditsia. What about planting four across the back as an "instant" screen? Apart from  possible interference from massive roots of the fallen mulberry, my major concern is crowding this small garden space with four more trees. Arguing in favor of the hornbeams, I could say the raised planting area is ten feet deep and provides ample breathing room for a tree screen. The trees would be lined up at the back edge of the garden and they would retain a narrow, vertical shape for many years. And they could be pruned so their canopies occupy space only above fence top.


A more easily solved problem, certainly less emotionally fraught for me, is visible in the photos above and below. Like most things made of wood these days, the fence was assembled using green wood, which is quickly shrinking, opening vertical cracks. When this process ends, I'll caulk with black silicone and cover it with more slate stain. A simple problem, relatively easy to fix.


The wood used to create the terracing is another matter. Do I let it age naturally to a neutral gray, stain it the dark slate color of the fence, or use a light taupe sealant, which is the same color as the back wall of the house? I think I'll want to make the wood disappear, so I'll probably use a coat of sealant to pick up the colors of the gravel and the soil.

I've grown to like the naked, unadorned pool frame. So rather than use bluestone coping or tile, I may leave it as is, only giving it a coat of sealant to unify the color scheme. I'm certainly open to hearing the other opinions (though I may ignore good advice, I'd like to to consider other options). So any thoughts?


The line of rough stepping stones (above) is temporary. I wanted to see how a rhythmic line of paving would look. I intend to use neatly cut bluestone squares or, if I leave the raw concrete of the pool exposed, possibly concrete pavers. I'm leaning toward selection of simpler, less decorative materials. It's probably no surprise that I'm an admirer of the gardens of Mein Ruys, especially her use of concrete and wood. I see her as a kind of guiding spirit.

Third lesson? Simplicity and unity of color are needed in this small garden. (Until the plants cover everything.) So many of my material and color selections are being driven by that goal. Simplicity and unity.


The paved area next to the house turns out to be well sized for a sitting out space. Our tenant left the chair in the photo below, as well as three more in the basement. They are not unattractive and they have the high advantage of being free. I could stain them the color of the fence, put two on each side with a small, low table between each pair, and use potted plants (perhaps) selectively placed to help define the area and integrate it with the rest of the garden.


Oh, I haven't mentioned the water. I ordered a gallon of black dye yesterday, just to give it a try. It will hide debris, allowing me to spend less time cleaning the pool. It also retards algae formation by  blocking light penetration, and may amplify the reflective qualities of the surface. And it won't harm fish and plants, so I can drop in a few goldfish to prevent mosquitoes breeding.

This is the big surprise:  the water moves continuously, sometimes very subtly, but always. I think because the pool is over sized and rather deep, the volume of water tends to retain energy imparted by the gentlest breeze. Watching it from inside the house is quickly becoming a favored pastime. I sit on a cushion in the middle of the empty floor, just looking out.

And in that sense, the apartment in the city is very much like the house at Federal Twist. A glass enclosed, sheltered, private space with a view out to light and air and life. The archetypal cave opening to the world.

33 comments:

  1. Gleditsia yes. I just planted some and worry how they will be. But planting them was the right thing to do. Mine are bigger with some top branches say of 300mm long. Two have just dropped their leaves and one will in the next week. (southern hemisphere seasons.) At first I saw none in the neighbourhood but now I have noted quite a few and they seem to be doing well. So fingers crossed. They are a very attractive tree.
    I have to say I quite like the raw concrete pool surround. Concrete is not so well regarded in some circles, giving an idea of a construction that is not yet finished, but it works in the photos you have.
    Clutter is a problem. It really needs to be none at all. But what to do with it. ??

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    1. I'm a little worried about my Gleditsia. They appear to be freshly dug and put into burlap. The roots were very loose. If they leaf out successfully, I'll know they're probably fine. Waiting.

      About concrete, yes. Clutter? This garden can't have any. I have to be nasty neat.

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  2. Hi James,

    I am so glad to see progress pics of the Brooklyn garden! Wow, a few green boxwoods really begin to make it feel gardened. I'll weigh-in by saying that I like the pool with a natural concrete edge. I think it really suits the space/location. I thought of you the other day when I received my "CB2" catalog--they have some plain, rectangular, concrete stools/side tables that I thought would make a great foil for the Bertoia chairs (if you choose them) and would really contribute to the calm/urban/geometric aesthetic you have going. http://www.cb2.com/outdoor-furniture/outdoor/cement-ivory-side-table/f7209 -- the catalog has nicer pictures than the web site, but you get the idea. Then again...you have free (and not unattractive) chairs on hand.

    Emily

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    1. Emily,

      Thanks for the CB2 link. I think the Bertoia chairs are well in the future. Too expensive right now. But the concrete garden furniture IS interesting. It is interesting to see how easily a few plants make the garden appear to be taking shape.

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  3. It's really coming together. Love the choice and placement of the Gleditsia. It will be a stunning "roof" for the garden.

    I had a project where I tried to convince the client to wait for wood to naturally gray. But the process was frustrating. It took longer than we expected, and then it grayed unevenly. As little surface area as you have, I'd go with your idea of sealing or staining it. I think you'll be happier that you can control the color.

    James, I LOVE that your gardening style includes both rambling, exuberant gardens like your Pennsylvania garden and this exquisitely controlled courtyard garden in Brooklyn. Both are spaces with soul and spirit. I DIG that!
    Happy garden-making!

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    1. Thomas,

      I've been wanting a place where I could make a more formal, controlled garden for a long time. The Federal Twist landscape just didn't offer an opportunity for that. I hope I can give the plantings a unified look. I know I'll want to plant exuberantly, though within limits as yet undefined. I have some specific plants in mind--not a plan at all, just enough to ad lib my way through the process.

      I'd prefer to stain the wood in the garden, but there's so much work to be done, I may let nature take its course and see how the wood colors with age. A year will probably do it. If it's not successful, I can use a sealant later.

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  4. I vote for letting the wood age naturally to a 'neutral grey' which will sing happily with the natural concrete. (You are a concrete fan with me)

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    1. And that's probably what I'll do. Thanks, fellow concrete fan.

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  5. Having the pool off-center was a genius decision. I am not sure it would have occurred to me.

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    1. Thanks, Les, but I can't take all the credit. The designers who planned our extension chose to locate the glass doors off center. Fortunately, I realized I had to put the garden axis and pool off center too. I'll admit I wrestled with that problem for a while. That little bit of asymmetry gives the garden a tension and dynamism a centered layout wouldn't have.

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  6. James I reckon letting the wood age naturally or a stain to pick out the ground colour are equally good. I would probably go for ageing in preference, needs just a little patience. If you were to stain it, then perhaps sooner rather than late before plantings spill over it, or earth marks it.

    I like the 'clean' line of the pool just as it is also.

    Don't let those Gleditsia roots get dry.

    Rob
    PS Bertoia chairs - originals???

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    1. Rob, out of necessity I'll probably let the wood age, at least until I find time for brushing on a sealant. The plants will hide a multitude of sins. You're yet another vote for the natural concrete look. Good.

      Not original Bertois chairs. We have a chain here called "Design Within Reach" that sells knock-offs of modern classics. I call it Design Out of Reach. Their reproduction are not modestly priced.

      Yes, the soil is sandy so I have to give attention to keeping the gleditsia watered.

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    2. I think that DWR has recently cleaned up it's image and product line and now sells items properly licensed and produced. For outdoor chairs, though, I'd get vintage Knoll product from Ebay or a vintage shop. You should be able to find them (sans chair pad, which you wouldn't want for outdoors anyway) for about $200 apiece in great condition.

      Emily

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  7. The diagonal drift of the boxwood is beautiful, and the four gleditsia will look like columns for (eventually!) a green canopy. Well done, it's a lovely structure for planting. Thanks for letting us all puzzle over the evolution of your garden -- I'll almost be sad to see it finished!
    P.S. since you ask, I like the concrete, and I'd stain the wood to match it.

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    1. Ross, not finished, not by a long shot. I still have to build a screen, remember? And you may be pleased to know I'm still considering a red color.

      Ha, yet another vote for concrete.

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    2. But since you are housekeeping, James, might you not dispense with the screened storage area completely? Your red wagon is very fetching, and can serve as a nice tray for drinks, while your shovels can be hung on hooks by the door.... p.s. I like the simplicity of four hornbeams against the back wall.

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    3. Unfortunately my technique for keeping things neat is to have a large closet where I can throw the mess. But Ross, I do like your idea of using my red wagon as a drinks tray.

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  8. James, I'd been thinking that to fill your space in such a way as to block the neighbours, and to do it quickly, rather than to wait for trees to grow, would be to build/install a very lightweight frame, a sort of arbor, upon which climbing, quickly-climbing plants/vines could grow. I was thinking it could be, say, 8 feet tall, poles as slender as,half an inch, in aluminium. It could cover most of/ all of your space. I am trying to think of the correct technical term for what I mean, and know I haven't expressed myself well. When I can define what I mean better, I'll let you know.

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    1. Faisal, is space frame the term you're searching for? It seems that would be difficult to construct if I understand you. It also might interfere with the simplicity (apparent) of the garden.

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  9. It's just stunning. You've already received the advice I'd give. Nothing pithy here. I want your little place, which reminds me of this setup: http://www.tomstuartsmith.co.uk/projects/show-gardens/chelsea-2010/

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    1. Thank you, Benjamin. Anytime you want to compare my garden to a Tom Stuart-Smith garden, please don't hesitate to do so. I do greatly admire his work, and have been looking at photos of similar gardens he has designed. So I have to admit I may have attempted a TS-S knockoff. Not really, but images of his work are in my mind.

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  10. Hello James, Thanks for sharing this website and photos of your new and beautiful progress-in-the making.... so far it's absolutely wonderful! Glad you have the opportunity to make a creation that's "nasty neat!" ha! Is this new setting a new home as well? Love the way you've laid-out the new garden! The small pool softens all the concrete and offers more serenity to the garden. And yes..it's nasty neat! Love it! Will be interesting as you add new plantings, flowers, trees, etc. No doubt you will do a master's job! What about Federal Twist? Will you continue working there as well? Or did you guys sell it? Again, great place and so much fun, huh? Enjoy! Lynn Sims Gilbert

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    1. Lynn,

      It's great to hear from you. No, we still have the Federal Twist house and garden. We've just expanded in Brooklyn, so now I'll have two gardens 70 miles apart to tend to. But I'm not complaining. Life is wonderful. I hope you're all doing well. Thanks so much for leaving a comment.

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  11. Nice whips, Golden James! Such hard-earned whips. Deceptively unassuming whips. It would be nice to see their emergence in time lapse, yes?

    "Ebonizing"

    http://lumberjocks.com/Allison/blog/5831

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    1. The buds are swelling, Peter. A good sign things are going well with the whips. Thanks for the ebonizing link. This is something I may want to give a try.

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  12. There is something extraordinarily serene and comforting about the design of your Brooklyn garden that, even in its incomplete state, when I enter it through cyberspace, I do not wish to leave.

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  13. Thanks for telling me your feelings about the incomplete garden, Allan. Those are encouraging words that help me understand my own feelings and motivations.

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  14. I love the bare concrete pond, and I also get in line behind those who say let the wood edgings fade to grey -- although isn't there a product that speeds up the process? I like the stone stepping stones, but I would consider staying with the rough edges to the rectangles. Would it be possible order them in slightly decreasing size (as you move toward the back) as a little trick to the eye? (That may be expensive customizing.) Will the hornbeams really grow that much faster than the Gleditsia? Or are they sold as taller trees to begin with?

    I also just had a little vision of a small building at the back of the garden, with a square footprint a little less than the width of the pool and a height a couple ft. taller than the fence -- with a 4-sided roof with a small ball finial at the point, very simple door, the whole thing stained the color of the fence. A little column of a storage shed -- maybe a little mysterious.

    It is looking great. Thanks for sharing this treasure of a space.

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  15. Questions I wish I had definitive answers to. I'm coming to like the rough, irregular stepping stones, but I don't have more to finish the path. I asked the contractor to remove "some" of the piles of slate in back, and this is all he left me. Decreasing the size of the stones is an interesting idea. I've toyed with a similar technique ... thinking about using the plants with large foliage near the house and plants with small foliage at back, to create the illusion of greater depth. But I probably won't do that simply because I'm "seeing" many plants with large foliage at back. Am I sacrificing design to love of plants? Maybe. As to the wood edging, I'll leave them to the elements for the time being. And I may experiment with the ebonizing technique Peter Holt sent a link to (see comment above).

    A little building at the back? Put my maintenance shed out in plain view, so to speak? Interesting. Perhaps if I could face it with branches from the country garden, branches with some kind of aesthetic interest or sculptural quality. An apartment next to the High Line uses beautiful driftwood as a fending material for privacy. Not that, but a similar concept, might work. Food for thought. Thanks for all the ideas.

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  16. The fluted birdbath is a very distracting shape in this space with everything that you have, too jarring. Put your thumb over it and see the difference.
    Maybe also stagger your square stepping stones, so hard elements are not so squared off.Otherwise, it's a beautiful and serene space. Like the dark disappearing fence. Small spaces are just so cool to design, so much thought to edit.
    LOVE your wall of window/doors, that makes me jealous!
    Maybe a golden hops vine against the dark wall.
    Great space!

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    1. It took me a while to find your comment. I couldn't remember which post it came to. The "fluted birdbath," I'm afraid, stayed and got planted with sedums. If you see it in the partially planted garden, you may object less vehemently. Then again, you may not. I see your point, but practicality reigns here. I have it, and I can work with it until I can afford or find something with, let's say, less "character." Rather than the golden hops vine, which might be overwhelming, I'm looking for the golden form of Boston ivy (Parthenocissus 'Fenway Park'), though it seems to be in short supply.

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  17. Wow! this is beautiful. I just came upon your post-do you have any posts about the fencing and how much you spent on the panels? I'm having a devil of a time sourcing one!!!

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  18. I think it depends on what area you live in. I had a hard time in Brooklyn and literally settled on a supplier I just happened to drive by. I didn't want to go outside the city, so I compromised. I think this fencing was around $2000 delivered to the front door.

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