Fletcher Steele, an eminent Landscape Architect from Boston in the early 1900's and one of my most revered role models, is quoted as saying: "I want all my places to seem the homes of children and lovers. I want them to be comfortable and if possible mysterious by day, with vistas and compositions appealing to the painter. I want them to be delirious in the moonlight.... I believe that there is no beauty without ugliness and that it should not be otherwise. Both are capable of stinging us to live. Contrast is more true to me than undeviating smugness. The chief vice in gardens . . . is to be merely pretty." -- F.S.
I attempt to follow this sage advice in all of my garden designs, searching for cues in the landscape that will help guide the nature of the landscape design in an appropriate language consistent with the loci of the environment.
I believe that whatever plantings are chosen for a garden in any form must be tough enough to withstand the Maine winters and the salt environment of the coast. They must also be naturalistic, planted in broad overlapping brushstrokes of color and texture, constantly changing with the seasons, and designed for the unique tastes of my clients. I have built a strong reputation for designing and building only the best gardens. I work closely with each crew, selecting the perfect stone or plant for each garden and ultimately adjusting the plan to fit the site. The process of working with the client and the space is the wonderful part of the journey within the design procedure . This is why I love what I do.
Recently, with input from my clients, I have started to design landscape garden details and amenities for gates, lights, stone sculpture and garden art that are specifically detailed to fit each garden. I work in collaboration with talented artists, stone sculptors and metalsmiths to develop each unique garden component. Each custom crafted "Land Art" piece adds another layer of rich dimension to the gardens I create. Years ago, commissioned garden art was considered an integral part of the landscape architectural profession. Now it is much more exclusive to my profession in today's world. That is why my gardens are unique. If you desire a complete and balanced ecologically sound, site-specific and lasting design please consider contacting Bruce John Riddell Landscape Architect. Together we can build your dream garden.... See More
Highlights: Grading, Fireplaces & Firepits, Shrubs, Hardscape Design, Deck Design, Patios, Garden Ponds, Invasive Plant Management, Water Features, Green & Sustainable Design, Trellises, Rain Garden Design, Environmental Consulting, Koi Ponds, Waterwise Landscape Design, Construction Management, Outdoor Lighting, Commercial & Retail Landscape Design, Porches, Installation And Maintenance