Grand-Parterre
The Grand-Parterre is a significant element of formal French Garden Design, characterized by its elaborate, symmetrical patterns of flower beds, shrubs, and paths. This style of garden was particularly popular during the reign of Louis XIV, who commissioned André Le Nôtre to design the gardens at Versailles, setting a standard for European Garden Design that influenced many royal and noble estates across Europe.
History
The concept of the Grand-Parterre originated in the 17th century when French landscape architecture began to evolve from the more naturalistic Italian garden to a more controlled, geometric layout. The term "parterre" itself means "on the ground," reflecting the low-lying nature of these garden features.
Le Nôtre's work at Versailles epitomized the grand parterre, where he designed expansive areas filled with intricate floral designs, fountains, and statuary, all laid out in a rigid geometric pattern. These designs were not only for aesthetic appeal but also to showcase the wealth, power, and control of the French monarchy over nature.
Design Elements
- Symmetry: The Grand-Parterre is known for its strict symmetry, where every element on one side mirrors the other.
- Floral Patterns: Flowers are often arranged in complex, interlocking patterns, which change with the seasons, requiring meticulous planning and maintenance.
- Paths and Walkways: Gravel or stone paths often form part of the design, allowing visitors to walk through the parterre while admiring the floral displays and sculptures.
- Fountains and Statues: Water features and sculptures are commonly incorporated, adding to the grandeur and providing focal points within the garden.
- Topiary: Sculpted shrubs and hedges are used to define spaces, create borders, and add to the overall geometric design.
Influence and Legacy
The Grand-Parterre style has had a lasting impact on garden design:
- It influenced the development of English Landscape Garden design, where elements of symmetry and structure were adapted into a more naturalistic setting.
- Many European palaces and stately homes incorporated grand parterres into their landscape designs, adapting the style to fit local tastes and climates.
- The concept of the parterre continues to be a key element in contemporary landscape architecture, though often with modern interpretations.
References
For further reading: