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R. Garden: A Modernist Reflection

Located at the promontory of the northernmost Appalachian ridge, the property has stunning views over downtown and Lake Erie.

Capturing the edge of contrast between modernism and the patina of the historic property, the reclaimed foundation stones were pierced with openings sized through sacred geometry.

The curving lines of the sculpture, “Night”, are echoed in the trunks of the trees and the sweep of the entrance drive.

Use of the Japanese principle of “Shin Sho”, subtle lighting, and textural plantings highlight the entry; reclaimed sandstone blocks create layers stepping up to the glassed hall piercing the traditional architecture.

A dramatic glassed hall allows views from the entrance, through the house, linking front garden to back, then back garden to wooded hillsides and Cleveland beyond.

The reflecting pool, visible from all sections of the home, serves as a modernist focal point and occasionally as a wading pool for the family grandchildren.

Careful attention to context and geometry created a vista where the walls of the reflecting pool align with buildings in the skyline and the sculpture of “Day” appears to float on a thin skim of water reflecting the sky.

The setting sun on the distant forested hills form a dramatic backdrop for the reflecting pool; and the fluid lines of the sculpture, “Day” by Gary Weisman.

The strong rectilinear lines of the modernist concrete pool contrast with the soft textural plantings. Intimate seating areas provide spaces for dining and reflection.

A fresh fall of snow blankets the reflecting pool, evergreen plantings and wooded hillsides – modernist structure prevails.

Planting containers made of white concrete echo the strong forms of the reflecting pool. The spaces formed between the walls and other planting beds become terraces for intimate gatherings and quiet reflection.

The use of Japanese painted ferns echoes the color and texture of “Solitary Man” by sculptor Philip Pavia.

Sacred geometry proportions, cut into reclaimed stone pillars, calm the eye while framing the “borrowed” landscape of the sculptural Modernist house beyond – a gift for those departing.

The drama of the landscape culminates in the figure of “Day”, appearing to float over the infinity edge of the pool, as a storm rolls over downtown and Lake Erie.

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2018 National Award | Residential Landscapes Designed by a Landscape Architect

R. Garden: A Modernist Reflection

Virginia Burt Designs, Inc.

Created when the owners needed a place of solace from grief and loss, this garden became an oasis of calm. As a serene gallery for diverse sculpture, the garden bridges the classical architecture of the 1904 home and the modernist proclivities and tastes of the owners.

CSLA | AAPC 12 Forillon Crescent, Ottawa ON K2M 2W5

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