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Plants have the ability to transform even the most mundane spaces into something magical with their color, life, and whimsy. And when combined with architecture, fountains, sculpture, and other elements to create a garden, plants can transform our way of thinking too. Whether you’ve been designing for a decade or a lifetime, a visit to an imaginative and well-designed outdoor space can be a source of inspiration for future projects and can help enhance your own skills and perspective.
To assemble the ultimate list of must-visit gardens, AD PRO consulted a range of celebrated designers, who have hand-picked their favorites from around the world. For some, these wonderful places have gone so far as to shape the creative process, whether through the feeling the garden evokes, or the beauty it has on offer. As travel resumes, consider a stop at one of these 14 spots.
Central Park, New York City
“Most designers are travelers. All over the world, botanical and private and public gardens are a place to escape, take in the beauty, the colors, and the uniqueness of each one. Nature creates a moment to exhale. It’s part of who we are, and we are always looking for inspiration. I love Central Park in New York, there is nothing like it. It’s a big, beautiful garden with a lake, a zoo, and paths. I love it for many reasons. I remember the first time I walked into the park: It was a huge surprise to me that something so beautiful, green, and lush could exist in the middle of this urban environment. I literally saw the joy it brought to the people walking, jogging, or having a picnic, and the kids running around. People needed it, myself included. That influenced me quite a lot, and I make sure to bring greenery into my client’s homes and my own home. Even my office is filled with greenery. Just applying those ideas, that’s like creating a great space for a client.” —Brigette Romanek, Romanek Design Studio
