Contemplative / Asian Gardens

Contemplative Gardens exude calmness and peace. They offer a welcome retreat for the mind and spirit, and allow the visitor to reflect inward.

Meditation and Zen Gardens are contemplative gardens. Japanese and Chinese garden design arranges garden elements to reflect the contemplative mind. Often nature or natural features are recreated in a smaller space. The intent is to inspire inner harmony through balanced, outer beauty.

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Traditional Japanese autumn pond view at Katsura Rikyu Imperial Garden, Kyoto, Japan

Traditional Japanese autumn pond view at Katsura Rikyu Imperial Garden, Kyoto, Japan

Stunning autumn colors at the Toji-in Strolling Garden, Kyoto, Japan, in late November

Stunning autumn colors at the Toji-in Strolling Garden, Kyoto, Japan, in late November

 

The practice of Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics, interpreting the laws of heaven (astronomy) and earth (geology) for practical use. Elements of Garden Feng Shui can be incorporated into any garden design. The goal is to improve one’s life through the positive, natural energy flow of Chi (Qi), and to ensure that the quality of the energy surrounding your home is balanced and beneficial.

A contemplative garden can consist of a small outdoor space, or embrace a complete landscape or park. Water, rocks, and enclosure / privacy are important elements. Running or gurgling water creates a symphony of sounds, is soothing to the mind, and masks external noise. Dry Gardens simulate water, and allow the mind to quiet and expand. While different garden styles may be utilized, a well-designed contemplative garden is a comfort to the mind and spirit.

Typically, the plant palette is restricted in a Contemplative Garden, and displays subtle colors. Flower bursts in spring, such as Flowering Cherries, Azaleas, Magnolias, and fall foliage colors are frequently included as visual, seasonal highlights.

To view a Contemplative Healing Garden, please visit the Hospice of the Gorge Memory Garden.

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The Rose Garden Room and entrance to the Hospice of the Gorge Memory Garden, a year after planting

The Rose Garden Room and entrance to the Hospice of the Gorge Memory Garden, a year after planting

A gorgeous, scenic view from a cozy seating area is calming to the mind and offers some well-deserved respite to the busy designer’s mind, owner's garden

A gorgeous, scenic view from a cozy seating area is calming to the mind and offers respite to the busy designer’s mind, owner’s garden 

 BEFORE PHOTO
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Future sunken patio site, in June

Future sunken patio site, in June

 AFTER PHOTOS
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The area magically transformed, beckoning to sit and relax, in August

The area magically transformed, beckoning to sit and relax, in August

Guests are invited to rest and enjoy the view, at Sakura Ridge Farm and Lodge

Guests are invited to rest and enjoy the view, at Sakura Ridge Farm and
Lodge

 

For copious images of this intimate, award-winning public park, please visit Stratton Gardens.

Peek into lovely Stratton Gardens overlooking downtown Hood River. Cozy benches and a peaceful setting offer a tempting invitation, in summer. Photography by Susan Ballier

Peek into lovely Stratton Gardens overlooking downtown Hood River. Cozy benches and a peaceful setting offer a tempting invitation, in summer.
Photography by Susan Ballier

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