Customer Reviews

Outdoor Designs for Living

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OMG! The designs in this book are amazing! I remember Michael Glassman as the host of "Garden Police" on Discovery Home where he always created the most beautiful front yards for people. Now in this book, he has taken his talents to the highest levels. Unlike most landscape design books I've seen, the pictures in this book really do invite you into the design. His attention to detail is truly appreciated and you can get a sense not only of his talents but his passion for each of his designs. What's even more remarkable is the fact that every single transformation in the book was done by him. With more than 25 before and after projects shown in the book, the ideas and tips are endless!

I am very impressed with this book - not only the photography, but the accompanying text, the set-up for the photo's, the idea of using before and after photo's, and the explanations that bridged the before and after photo's.

The yards that I saw represented in this book are very typical of the yards that I have been looking at in my search for a new home. They are long, relatively narrow, and totally disheartening at first glance. This book has helped me immensely in envisioning what can be - including the use of mixed elements and media. I was pleased to see that my thought of taking out most of the grass and replacing it with "something else" is not such an unusual one.

I also picked up several ideas for future reference - such as partial walls to block iffy views, curved walkways, water elements, and subdued lighting. The use of stones, color, and elements such as comfortable furniture, trailing flowers in large urns, and fire bowls (something that is now on my "have to have" list!).

Tips are listed in several places, including the Top Ten Landscaping Tips, Helpful Hints For Front Yards, and the Top Ten Landscaping Challenges.

Chock full of gorgeous color photo's, this is a must have book for anyone looking to create an efficient, beautiful, and livable outoor area,as well as those that are looking to add value to a property.