This weekend I picked up two new books for my design library, Gardens of the Hudson Valley and Private Gardens of Connecticut. I recommend both books for your own library.

Both books reflect gardens on a grand scale, but feature elements that can be applied to any size garden. Showcasing interesting mixing of plants, hardscapes and structures, the books include wide landscape views as well as detailed views of unique areas. As implied by the titles, the gardens reflect formal, traditional designs often seen on the east coast, but include some modern, woodland and prairie designs also. Over the next few days I will provide details on some of my favorite gardens featured in each book since neither book provide detailed plant identification for novice gardeners.

Purchase via Amazon:
Gardens of the Hudson Valley
Private Gardens of Connecticut