132 HOME LANDSCAPING

FORMAL LANDSCAPING

Formal landscape developments are those laid out on a geometric
symmetrical plan, the two halves being practically alike. Such
developments are precise, orderly, and conventional, with each
separate part and the framework clearly indicated. Such archi-
tectural effects in landscape are generally created for the purpose
of making an area of transition between an angular man-made
house and the natural landscape. Therefore a formal development
is usually located in conjunction with a house. A section of the
grounds may be developed formally, or the entire grounds may be
treated as one formal unit. See page 146.

The outlines and the main axis of a formal development are gen-
erally planned as extensions of lines or points of a house. The
central axis of the main section usually starts from the center of
the living-room window, door, or terrace. This imaginary line
terminates at the far end of the lawn area in a focal point, such as
a sun dial, statue, bird bath, bird house, fountain, pool, seat, tree,
garden house, tea house, pergola, or arbor. See pages 143 and 145.
Such a center of interest adds character to the grounds just as a
fireplace does to a living room. Formal landscape design also
employs secondary axes across the plot from side to side, making
well-proportioned divisions. Color accents and form accents come
at the termini of these axes.

If the entire private area of the grounds is developed formally,
flowers are usually confined to the borders. However, where
space permits, a small supplementary formal flower garden is often
added. Because it is a complete unit in itself such a garden is usu-
ally enclosed by a hedge, wall, or fence. A small garden has special
charm, for it can be comprehended at a glance*

The more simple the basic plan of a formal area is, the better.
Most of its lines are straight, but curved lines often occur at the
ends of oblongs and within squares. A formal development should
not be made on sloping ground*

Walks are essential in a formal plan. They give a reason for
divisions and borders that repeat the lines of the area and of the
lot and house* They call attention to attractive vistas at the end
of the walks. All walks should be wide enough for two.