A Living Space

The dramatic impact of the pavilion on the park is nothing new in the eventful history of the estate. In particular, the co-existence of baroque elements and idealised, close-to-nature elements from the repertoire of English landscape gardening, only reveal how easily the park has always been able to absorb the massive alterations introduced by the spirit of the times at various stages throughout its long history.

Hence, it is a primary concern for the designer as much as for the observer to treat the existing grounds with respect as well as boldness. The goal of the latest intervention in the substance of the grounds, therefore, had to be focused on a concentrated effort to preserve the existing contrast between the original substance and mature growth as well as the contemporary and future situation. It was deliberately avoided to attempt to stop the clock – or turn it back – by simply reconstructing and restoring. The intention was and is to safeguard the generous proportions of the garden and to continue the stimulating dialogue between the old and the new structural elements. Great attention has therefore been paid to conserving the large population of mature trees and exploiting the effects of the interplay of light and shade among them, bearing in mind that the situation may change abruptly in the future due to natures circumstances.

In order to keep the spaces balanced as well as to properly blend historic park elements with modern ones, large-scale measures were introduced in the design concept permitting to create new perspective axis and vantage points.
Great attention has been paid to the relationship between inside and outside areas. For example, the ornamental cherry and apple trees planted near the pavilion are an attractive and genial complementary element enhancing the sense of distance of the expanse of the surrounding landscape.

The structural garden elements in the southern part of the property match the modern construction of the pavilion with respect to design and materials. On the other hand, the area around the villa and on the northern side is fully in harmony with the long established elements. Nevertheless, these areas have also been given a new look, for instance as a result of the re-designed large forecourt and driveway up to the villa, the extension of the park towards the north, the stream with its impressive granite springhead, and a number of shrub beds. Conspicuous round rose beds, areas of ornamental shrubs and various pot-plants are deliberate eye-catchers in the immediate vicinity of the villa, evoking the feudal garden culture of a century ago.

The landscape garden as a whole radiates aesthetic appeal, tranquillity and the joy of living, thus making a vital contribution to the well-being of those who live here and their visitors. Whatever the extent and quality of the interventions, it must be recorded that this is just another new page in the history book of the park.

Schönholzer + Stauffer GmbH, Riehen