Calepinage

The art of paving patterns Calpinage is something we don’t talk about here in the United States. Maybe that’s because we don’t have a corresponding word. We could say “paving patterns”, but that just doesn’t sound nearly as cool. Calpinage is the art of laying out hardscape patterns, turning boring alleys and streets into texturallyContinue reading “Calepinage”

Go vertical! These gardens in La Romieu, France maximize use of space.

There’s really not much room to plant here. Soil surfaces are small, so there’s no way to create depth or layering in the planting areas. No worry – these gardeners just used the adjacent walls as additional garden space. In the shady alley, a collection of hostas trims the interface between wall and ground. That’sContinue reading “Go vertical! These gardens in La Romieu, France maximize use of space.”

Municipal flower bed installation, France

Municipal flower beds are a big thing in France. Often, as one enters a town there is a sign proclaiming it to be a “ville fleuri” – a flower city. It seems that every city and town competes to see who can create the most original and extravagant flower beds. By July, these beds willContinue reading “Municipal flower bed installation, France”

Small patio remodel: concrete work

This patio is the focal point when looking from the house. Formerly cracked old concrete, it will be warm colored flagstone banded with integral color concrete. A fountain on a pedestal will add movement and sound, and the overall effect will bring the Spanish look of the house and existing patio all the way toContinue reading “Small patio remodel: concrete work”