Since this is the week of Valentines, I was inspired to share some gardens that whisper “romantic.” And while this word does not often come to mind when I look at gardens, it seemed all the more reason to create a blog this particular week.
The author of the book from whence these images are taken, Ben Lenhardt, Jr., and I share the belief that “great gardens have souls,” reflecting the visions of the owners who dreamed them and the people who made them. I’m sure you’ll agree with me that The Gardens of the North Shore of Chicago are so singular because they possess that je ne sais quoi that comes from a revered respect for good design and the continuance of this tradition. Enjoy!
What says romantic more than a swath of tulips and bluebelles as a backdrop to a path lined with large pots of more tulips, interspersed with pruned boxwood globes.
Such an enticing entrance, how could you not wish to venture across the green path under the arch into the ultimate garden room beyond?
This is not just any garden room but one projecting an aura of romance with its white lattice arched walls, surrounded by majestic trees.
Talk about making an entrance…what a mood this sets for any guest!
Pink in all its many shades so denotes the meaning of Valentines.
Follow me down the garden path…simplicity and imagination at its finest.
A view from a bay window that would lift your spirit at any time of the year.
The deep umber red of the tall smoke bush masterfully offsets the iron gate and a standardized pink lilac.
This could only be characterized as a “romantic getaway.”
Doesn’t this just invite you to step on those petal strewn stones?
What says romance more than stone garden maidens glancing at tall spires of deep pink digitalis?
Subtle layerings within this composition invite you to “venture further, take that next step,” a personal note that is at the heart of romance.
All photos credit, Scott Shigley for Gardens of the North Shore of Chicago, published by Monacelli Press.
Would love to visit these gardens. Are they ever open and where do I look for information or a garden tour?
Hi Marty, I might try Googling to see if any of these private gardens are ever open…surely there must be some occasion. Thhey truly are exceptional! xB
A terrific way to visit the most wonderful private gardens is through the Open Days program of The Garden Conservancy.
Thank you, John!! xB
Stunningly beautiful! Thank you for sharing!!
It has been such a pleasuree to share, and re-post these extraordinary images! xB
Oh, my…you are “just the best!!!” How I needed this on yet…another dreary morning…soon, soon….franki
They truly are romantice, n’est-ce pas…so remarkably beautiful. xB
Stunning photography. Thank you once again for sharing your skilled artistry with your readers. Picture perfect landscapes worthy of being framed for an interior setting.
It’s a remarkable part of the country, and so beautifully maintained after all these years! xB
Thank you so much for the enchanting and beautiful garden tour, abundant inspiration for armchair travel quite appreciated in snow country today!
Appreciated in any part of our country, snowy or otherwise. Scott Shigley is such a very talened photogrpaher!! xB
These gardens make me want to say, “ Will you be my valentine?”
So glad they had this affect on you! I couldn’t resist creating this blog…xB
Your photos have made me cross my heart with joy.
Oh Tall R, you’re such a wit!! xxB
Your best ever! Simply stunning and heart stopping. Loved every frame.