Anglo Saxon Landscapes During the Norman Conquest
Anglo Saxon Landscapes During the Norman Conquest The arrival of the Normans in the 2nd half of the 11th century irreparably improved The Anglo-Saxon lifestyle. Engineering and horticulture were abilities that the Normans excelled in, trumping that of the Anglo-Saxons at the time of the occupation. But before centering on home-life or having the occasion to think about domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire population. Monasteries and castles served separate purposes, so while monasteries were large stone structures built in only the most productive, wide dales, castles were set upon blustery knolls where the people focused on understanding offensive and defensive tactics.
The serene practice of gardening was unlikely in these dismal bastions. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is represented in Berkeley Castle, which is most likely the most untouched example we have. The keep is said to date from William the Conqueror's time period. A monumental terrace serves as a discouraging factor to invaders who would attempt to mine the walls of the building. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an ancient yew hedge trimmed into the form of crude battlements.
Your Outdoor Living Area: A Great Place for a Garden Fountain
Your Outdoor Living Area: A Great Place for a Garden Fountain A great way to enhance the look of your outdoor living area is to add a wall water feature or an exterior garden fountain to your landscaping or garden layout. Historical fountains and water features have stirred the notice of modern-day designers as well as fountain designers. You can also reinforce the connection to the past by incorporating one of these to your home's interior design. The water and moisture garden fountains release into the environment draws birds and other creatures, and also balances the ecosystem, all of which contribute to the advantages of including one of these beautiful water features. Flying, annoying insects, for instance, are scared away by the birds congregating around the fountain or birdbath. Wall fountains are a good alternative if your yard is small because they do not need much space in contrast to a spouting or cascading fountain. You can choose to put in a stand-alone fountain with a flat back and an connected basin propped against a fence or wall in your backyard, or a wall-mounted type which is self-contained and hung from a wall. Adding a fountain to an existing wall requires that you add a fountain mask as well as a basin at the bottom to collect the water. Be sure to hire a professional for this type of job since it is better not to do it yourself due to the intricate plumbing and masonry work involved.