INNOVATION IN DESIGN AWARDS 2010
 

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IN THIS INNOVATIVE LANDSCAPE, there is no front yard, back yard hierarchy. Over several years, Robin Kramer of Robin Kramer Garden Design developed the grounds around this family home organically, as a series of individual spaces—garden rooms with different functions, different views and different characters that flow one-into-another in an inviting, meandering kind of way.

Kramer's design is clean and her plant choices are surprising. There is a basic solidity that comes from a framework of evergreen planting and good, clean hardscaping—a dark green box with white-painted wood creates an almost black-and-white effect that remains vibrant in every season and plays off the plush surroundings.

Amidst this rigorous framework, fights of 'Globe Master' allium, yellow Magnolia 'Elizabeth', Japanese iris and hundreds of daffodils all have their moments at times throughout the year. In ancient times, linear, patterned 'meanders' like the Greek Key design were symbols of continuity. Here, the pattern appears as the parterre and repeats in the strong angles of the outdoor furniture, pool gate and details of the planting boxes. Kramer's surprising touches—stainless steel reflecting globes, wire Eiffel Tower sculptures and circular lawn for spring Maypole dances—add unexpected whimsy and charm.

CLOVER CLUB (click image for larger view)