Camilla Anderson, a garden historian, gave an insightful talk on the Arts and Crafts and Edwardian garden movement and in particular the gardens of Harold Peto on 9
th September 2024.
At the heart of the Arts and Crafts movement – as promoted by Morris & Co – was a reaction to the industrialisation and mass production of the time. The movement brought new ideas not only to art and design but also introduced a new era in garden design. It focused on style, craftsmanship and natural beauty replacing the colourful sprawling ‘garden carpets’ of the Victorian era.
During the period many affluent industrialists commissioned new houses and gardens. Often the garden designer worked closely with the house architect to ensure that the garden was an extension/reflection of the house and a space for outdoor interests. The movement focused on the use of natural handcrafted materials with architectural design at its heart. Inspiration was drawn from the formal gardens of the Elizabethan era with their structural topiary and other elements including terraces, steps, balustrades and coronas, all of which fitted into the natural environment and setting of the house. Camilla made numerous recommendations for visits to Arts and Crafts Gardens, including Athelhampton in Dorset (designed by Inigo Thomas), Rodmarton Manor in Cirencester and Hidcote in Chipping Campden and Goddards in York.
Notable garden designers during the time include William Robinson (Gravetye Manor) who is known for his use of perennials and natural approach, Gertrude Jekyll (Munstead Wood and Upton Grey) renowned for her low-key natural approach inspired by the Impressionist painters.
The final part of the talk focused on Harold Peto (1854 – 1933) an architect and garden designer who drew inspiration from his travels across France and Italy. The gardens at Ilford Manor in Wiltshire are regarded by many as his masterpiece with its cypresses, Italian garden and use of natural materials, all enhancing the natural beauty of the house’s setting. His other gardens include Buscot Park in Oxfordshire and Heale House in Wiltshire.
The talk ended with a Q & A session, the main topic of which was garden recommendations!
Leave a Reply