Anglo-Saxon Landscapes During the Norman Conquest
Anglo-Saxon Landscapes During the Norman Conquest The arrival of the Normans in the second half of the 11th century irreparably transformed The Anglo-Saxon lifestyle. At the time of the conquest, the Normans surpassed the Anglo-Saxons in building design and cultivation. However, there was no time for home life, domesticated architecture, and adornment until the Normans had overcome the whole realm. Most often designed upon windy summits, castles were fundamental structures that enabled their occupants to spend time and space to offensive and defensive programs, while monasteries were rambling stone buildings generally placed in only the most fecund, extensive valleys. The barren fortresses did not provide for the calm avocation of farming. Berkeley Castle is most likely the most intact model in existence at present of the early Anglo-Norman style of architecture. It is said that the keep was developed during William the Conqueror's time. A big terrace meant for exercising and as a means to stop attackers from mining under the walls runs around the building. On one of these parapets is a picturesque bowling green covered in grass and surrounded by an aged hedge of yew that has been designed into coarse battlements.The Positive Benefits of Adding a Water Feature in Your Living Area
The Positive Benefits of Adding a Water Feature in Your Living Area The addition of a wall fountain or an outdoor garden fountain is a great way to beautify your yard or garden design. Modern-day designers and fountain builders alike use historical fountains and water features to shape their creations. Therefore, in order to link your home to earlier times, add one these in your decor. In addition to the positive characteristics of garden fountains, they also produce water and moisture which goes into the air, thereby, drawing in birds as well as other creatures and harmonizing the environment. For example, irritating flying insects are usually discouraged by the birds drawn to the fountain or birdbath.Wall fountains are a good option if your yard is small because they do not need much space as compared to a spouting or cascading fountain. There are two types of fountains to choose from including the freestanding model with a flat back and an attached basin set up against a fence or a wall in your yard, or the wall-mounted, self-contained version which is hung directly on a wall. A fountain can be added to an existing wall if you include some sort of fountain mask as well as a basin to gather the water at the bottom. The plumbing and masonry work necessary for this type of job requires training, so it is best to hire a skilled person rather than go at it yourself.