Creating Rooms

Planting design can use the architectural features of plants to create different experiences within a site. Using plants to create space can create feelings of anticipation, safety, relaxation or caution depending on the degree of enclosure¹. Understanding how a plant grows and occupies a space can determine the level of enclosure a site is given. Enclosed space is referred to as positive space, the level of enclosure could be as small as a tree canopy overhead or a fully enclosed space. Positive space can create a feeling of refuge and gives a space a sense of scale². If there is too much enclosure, a space can begin to feel confined, and unsafe in some instances. An area with less structure is considered negative space, these are areas to move through and are often less memorable². Creating a combination of positive and negative space, enclosed and open, will create a balanced and welcoming space¹.

Framing a view

Types of enclosure

Source¹

4 Sides	Creates an introverted space, which can be  claustrophobic or intimate. Examples of this type of enclosure is a forest clearing or an enclosed garden.
3 Sides	Offers a space with a view. This type of enclosure creates a high degree of protection
2 Sides	Creates an extroverted space, with a clear orientation. This can be seen as an L shape in the planting.
1 Side	Created with a freestanding planting, which becomes the focus. This type of enclosure is most effective when a ground cover is used to define the boundary of the space.

 

Architecture of Plants

Plants can be used to create spaces, highlight views, and outline boundaries. 

Source²

Ceiling/Canopy	Canopy plants, such as trees, can be used to define a space. They create a sense of enclosure.
Ground Cover	Ground cover plants can define the visual extent of a space. They are generally mass plantings, which do not block views, or block movement
Barrier	Barriers are lower plant which can’t be moved through, but do not block views
Scrim	Scrim plants are tall vertical plants which create filtered views. Scrims plants may or may not restrict movement.
Screen	Screen plants can’t easily be seen or moved through.

1. Robinson, N. (2016). The Planting Design Handbook (3rd ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003074953
2. Mooney, P. (2019). Planting Design – Connecting People and Place. The restorative landscape. Routledge 1st Edition. pp.156-210.