For thousands of years the simplicity of Japanese gardens has been used to inspire meditation. In modern times, the calm environment is ideal for soothing jangled nerves at the end of the day as one family experienced when they created an Asian inspired outdoor room in their backyard.
Everything Zen
A peaceful Bucks county property is even more Zen these days thanks to an Asian inspired outdoor room. The homeowners, Amanda and Chaz Dylan, had always admired the beauty of Japanese gardens but did not think that the style suited the pastoral setting of their home. Tired of their existing patio they began planning a backyard renovation.
They contacted Keith Frederick of Environmental Landscape Associates. As they discussed their needs and wants for the project, Keith noticed several Asian sculptures in the garden. He discovered their appreciation for the style and explained that the clean lines and natural materials used in Japanese gardens can compliment a variety of architectural styles. Using the elements of traditional Asian gardens, Keith designed a space that is both contemporary and timeless.
The two main styles are tea gardens and Zen gardens. Both have similar goals and use some of the same design principles. Japanese gardens use contrast to create balance. They feature opposing yet complimentary forces expressed with the use of wood, fire, earth, metal and water as well as the opposites in seasons, colors, and compass directions. These elements are frequently included in the landscape.
Traditionally the gardens are composed of evergreen trees and shrubs with few deciduous plants and no flowers. Japanese gardens place a strong emphasis on structural elements to define the space. The hardscape materials are diverse. Stepping stone are frequently used, as are gravel, sand, and tile. Common ornaments are boulders, stone lanterns and wash basins. These elements are used to symbolize both physical and mental forces. The imagery includes boulders to represent mountains, stone used to create dry steam beds and sand symbolizing the waves on the ocean.
Zen gardens are designed for prayer and ritual. It is believed that spirits reside in prominent boulders, ancient trees and waterfalls. These ‘spirit places’ are included in the garden and meant for worship.
The Roji or tea garden is designed to prompt mental and spiritual repose. The outer wall surrounding the garden encourages inward contemplation. Passing through the gate symbolizes a departure from the outer world while walking the path to the teahouse allows one to prepare for the experience of the tea ceremony. The ceremony celebrates hospitality and offers an opportunity to display ones sophistication to guests.
The Dylan’s outdoor room offers a space to separate from the outside world and reflect. The outer wall is a custom fence constructed of black bamboo screens in an Ipe frame. An impressive Shinto style gate and granite path offer entry into the backyard. The simple running bond pattern of the granite pavers displays this beautiful natural material in a refined way.
The solid roof of the outdoor room is supported by posts with clean simple lines and open beams. Copper chains on each corner carry raindrops to river stone drain basins below. In the spirit of hospitality it boasts an outdoor kitchen and fireplace. Both are faced with a light colored natural stone veneer that plays off the dark wood. The granite fireplace mantle echoes the details of the curved Shinto gate.
Opposing elements of wood, stone, earth, fire and water are all represented, as the outdoor room overlooks a garden featuring boulders, statuary, a waterfalls and pond. This space is not all about tradition though, modern conveniences include recessed lighting, speakers and a flat-screen television.
With simple architecture, durable natural materials and enduring beauty, the principles of Asian gardens are versatile and translate easily to a variety of styles. If you are searching for peace, this ancient art form is also perfectly suited to today’s busy lifestyles.
