While sculpture remained central to his artistic practice, Isamu Noguchi’s (1904–1988) interests and production spanned an exceptionally broad terrain that included furniture and lamps, stage sets for dance, plazas, courtyards — and gardens. Noguchi made no distinction between design, craft, and the so-called fine arts: in his view all of these could all be considered art should their aesthetic qualities sufficiently transcend those generated by the simple address of need.

Although his gardens include several of the twentieth century’s most iconic landscape designs and have received almost universal praise, Noguchi nonetheless occupies a place removed from the normal practice of landscape architecture. As an artist he relied more on intuition – bolstered by focused study where required – than on objective analysis, and he shaped his landscapes as sculpture, with space as their primary vehicle. To Noguchi landscape design was a spatial and formal art, and from his earliest environmental projects to the works of his later maturity, he succeeded in conceiving and constructing a series of remarkable places.

In this comprehensive and richly illustrated study of Noguchi’s gardens, noted landscape historian Marc Treib describes and critiques projects that date from his early unrealised projects for playgrounds and monuments to a large park in Sapporo, Japan, whose construction was completed only posthumously. The story begins with the discussion of Noguchi sculpture that relate in some way to actual landscapes, then moves to the dance set designs for Martha Graham, finally entering the realm of actual landscapes with his gardens for the Reader’s Digest offices in Tokyo and UNESCO House in Paris. Many more projects followed in the United States, Japan, and Israel.

Varying in their content and structure, several chapters collectively treat subjects such as landform, water, and the courtyard, while others focus on the major gardens monographically. Accompanied by stunning images from the archives of Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum archives and the author’s own photographs, the story of Noguchi’s Gardens: Landscape as Sculpture will reward those interested in landscape architecture, art history, garden design, and art more broadly. 

Sri Lanka takes its place in Asian garden history not only by virtue of its chronicle accounts, inscriptional records and literary descriptions of gardens and natural environments, but even more so on account of the unique survival of the archaeological remains of many planned garden forms, especially from time horizons earlier than those of surviving historic gardens in other South Asian societies and cultures. The Sri Lankan relict gardens are an archaeological phenomenon little seen elsewhere in Asia from a period prior to the 13th century.

Following the journey proposed by Klaus Holzhausen and the authors of this volume, one goes from surprise to surprise. First of all, there’s the unsuspected world of the great royal estates: spatial generosity here reflects a local aristocratic civilisation which found in the garden the highest point of its art. Another essential tradition presented in this volume is that of Sri Lanka’s monastic gardens. The sheer number of Buddhist monasteries scattered all over the island since almost 2000 years is incredible. Most of these sites contain rather gardens than buildings. Then there’s the more complex case of colonial gardens, those magical but often forced amalgams between a self-celebrating culture from outside and the local topography and vegetation. Last but not least – and the volume that Klaus Holzhausen, as a true prophet of the places he has traversed for nearly three decades, makes clear – is the existence of contemporary gardens that have, physically and immediately for those lucky enough to walk through them, an extraordinary force and something to teach the world.

The extremely meticulous way in which Gardens of Sri Lanka has been elaborated and the quality of the iconic and written documentation permit readers to already be there and to discover page after page the existence of another world.

This book explores the illustrious gardens in Suzhou as both an important page in the history of Chinese gardens, and as a place of recreation and cultivation for the people. Based on architectural surveys of Suzhou gardens and an analysis of Zhuozheng Yuan (the Humble Administrator’s Garden) and Liuyuan (the Lingering Garden), this abundantly illustrated book presents the overall gardening characteristics and gardening skills of Jiangnan Garden. Included here are 196 rare archival images of actual gardens, echoed by Song lyrics and calligraphic writing, which provide a comprehensive interpretation of the art of traditional Chinese gardens in both form and shape. The essays are characterised by an urbane and elegant narrative style and occasional passages of lyric expression, and touch on the fields of history, architecture, literature, and painting. The finalised English version faithfully transmits the original meaning, making the whole book a wonderful reading experience.

Text in English and Chinese.

This book is a classic of theoretical writing on Chinese gardens by Tongji University Professor Chen Zongzhou, a well-known authority on Chinese gardens. Here, the author sets forth new and novel concepts in garden design and propounds a set of distinctive and penetrating ideas on the subject, including the arrangement of scenes, “in-motion” and “in-position” types of gardens, the handling of hills and water, the planning of buildings, and the laying out of flowers and trees. It elucidates the arrangement of gardens and shows how these relate to human sentiments, and how what is tangible in the garden relates to the intangible. With its unique style this book is not only a theoretical work of garden design, but also a work of rare literary value.
This book is published both in Chinese and English. The Chinese version is first written in exquisite handwriting, using the traditional writing brush, then reproduced in photocopy. Included here are photographs of Suzhou Gardens and 32 plates of ancient Chinese garden designs which vividly complement the literature. The book will acquaint the reader with the art of Chinese garden design and will serve as a reference for modern garden designers and tourists. 

Text in English and Chinese.

In 1872 the most famous cultural critic in Britain moved into a dilapidated cottage in the heart of England’s Lake District and swapped his pen for a billhook. John Ruskin’s arrival in a landscape already steeped in agricultural history began an evolution that led to the extraordinary gardens at Brantwood today.

Ruskin’s own gardens reflected his empathy with plants and the natural world, as well as his interests in Dante’s poetry and Renaissance painting. His Moorland Garden is one of the very first wilderness gardens, and his Zig-zaggy a surprising allegory of redemption.

Ruskin’s cousin and carer, Joan Severn, created some of the earliest gardens in the naturalistic style of William Robinson.
These fascinating and beautiful gardens were neglected for decades after Severn’s death but have been brought back to life by Sally Beamish.

In this beautifully illustrated and comprehensive guide, eminent plant scientist, botanist and horticulturist David Ingram traces the history of the gardens. 

Chinese gardens distinguish themselves from other gardens in the world by successfully integrating architecture, painting, calligraphy, and literature with garden design. Each classical Chinese garden has its own unique style. This book explores the design and characteristics of some of the most famous classical gardens in China through a wealth of photographs and matching verses.

Text in English and Chinese.

Sicilian cuisine is known as curtigghiu – of the courtyard – with recipes passed from door to door and from generation to generation by word of mouth. Influenced by the endless crossing of cultures that is Sicily’s history, its food is as rich in tradition as it is in taste. Here this mingling of Europe, Italy, the Middle East and North Africa is celebrated in 30 recipes chosen by Maite and Marie and photographed – both landscapes and finished dishes – by Mau.

Tuscany is home to Florence, the Renaissance, stunning landscapes, great wines – and food. Simple, slow cooked, made with the finest ingredients, locally sourced. Maite and Marie collect 30 traditional recipes, combined with 40 of Mau’s delicious photographs, and published at an affordable price. Now the best of Tuscan food is within easy reach of any home cook.

Chapter 1: Urban Play: A Project from Start to Finish: What does a landscape architect do exactly? Here, we peel back the finished project, which has won several design awards, to show the major steps in the making of the garden. We start with the clients wishes for an outside play area for their young twin girls that will be visually pleasing when viewed from the living rooms several stories above. And the condition of the site: an odd-shaped and impossibly steep and tilted small plot covered in brambles. We present a ‘before’ picture, early drawings, problem solving, the gradual articulation of the design, how the Blasens work together, choice of fabrication materials, planting design, the construction period, and the final finished garden and how it is used. Illustrations throughout.

Chapter 2: Gardens: From the Mountains to the Shore: This photographic presentation of a dozen gardens is the bulk of the book. Some projects are covered in 2 spreads; others in 3 spreads, one in 5 spreads. The gardens range from a city courtyard to a beach garden, to an 22-acre estate with a California wildflower meadow, and an extensive green roof on a Herzog & de Meuron designed house that s set into a natural hillside. Some have been published in top design magazines; a few particularly exciting new large projects are now being published for the first time. Each project is introduced with a) descriptions of the garden and how the clients use it and b) a paragraph about the planting design and key plants.

Chapter 3: Lexicon: The Blasens Aesthetic: This chapter-an alphabetical list of terms/phrases that appear often in the Blasens conversations about their work investigates the Blasens aesthetic. We hear what they most deeply care about, often in their own words: for example, seamlessness of design, color, geography, lightness, plants that thrive where they are, rhythmic sequencing of experiences in a garden, retaining what already is. And also their influences in the art, design, and architecture worlds, and what’s catching their attention right now. This collage of fragments builds a fascinating picture of their sensibilities, and how they earned the title of the new tastemakers in House and Garden magazine. Small photographs, for many entries, give examples.

Are gardens anything more than collections of plants? Spaces for leisure activities? Extensions that protect the private house from the public road? Art objects appreciated by a relatively small group of connoisseurs? To consider such questions this guidebook invites readers on a tour of ten beautiful gardens as depicted in thousands of pages of fiction written by the most skillful of novelists over almost a millennium. From Murasaki Shikibu’s Tale of Genji and the ever-mysterious Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, to such Chinese masterpieces as the Chin Ping Mei and Cao Xuequin Story of the Stone, and on through the works of famous American, Australian, English, and European writers, these novels compound gardens as they exist within the culture of the time with the specific needs of fiction, tackling everything from planting plans to the activities that take place within the garden confines. When novelists write the garden it is revealed, again and again, as the site of peccadilloes that define the state of being human, and while these written gardens may not be places we would ever wish to visit, should they actually exist, a consideration of their role in defining humanity provides yet another way to experience and appreciate any real gardens we happen to encounter. Contents: I. The Garden of Polygamy: Murasaki Shikibu, The Tale of Genji; II. The Garden of Rejected Love: Francesco Colonna, Hypnerotomachia Poliphili: The Strife of Love in a Dream; III. The Garden of Pornography: [T’ang Hsien-tsu], Chin P’ing Mei, or The Plum in the Golden Vase; IV. The Garden of No Prospects: Cao Xueqin, The Story of the Stone, or The Dream of the Red Chamber; V. The Garden of Gentlemanly Reticence: Laurence Sterne, The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman; VI. The Garden of the Test Tube: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Elective Affinities; VII. The Garden of Childhood Anxiety: Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There; VIII. The Garden of Stupidity: Gustave Flaubert, Bouvard and Pécuchet; IX. The Garden of Hateful Parents: Christina Stead, The Man Who Loved Children; X. The Garden of Loving Literature: Vladimir Nabokov, Ada, or Ardor: A Family Chronicle; The Writer’s Garden, the Reader’s Garden; Notes; Illustrations; Garden Bibliography; Literary Bibliography.

Yangzhou, an historically important site in the Jiangsu province, is one of the most affluent cities in China. This book explores the historical background of Yangzhou gardens and traditional houses in detail, through architectural surveys that offer targeted research and analysis of garden and residential projects. From early on, Yangzhou underwent several economic booms and the rich material base provided great opportunities for its development in art and culture. The unique characteristics of Yangzhou gardens and houses are presented through a wealth of archival images, in addition to a text by the renowned Chinese academic Chen Congzhou.

Text in English and Chinese.

Those in the know are aware that Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel has a real-life counterpart in the Swiss Alps: the Waldhaus Sils, which has pleased and puzzled visitors for 111 years and become an icon of Swiss hospitality. Located above the small and pretty village of Sils Maria, near St Moritz, it overlooks a striking landscape of forests, lakes and mountains and offers a combination of belle époque flair and modern comfort. Its distinctive charm comes from the fact that the Waldhaus has been family-owned and operated ever since its grand opening on 15 June 1908. 111 Years of Waldhaus Sils ranges across the hotel’s life and history. Brief essays look at the hotel’s history and the broader context in which it exists. The book also shines a light on colourful members of the owning family and their dreams and work, interspersed with conversations with people who have known them. Beautifully illustrated with newly commissioned and historic photographs and documents, it is a tantalising glimpse into the life of an exceptional hotel in one of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes.

Following 150 Bars, 150 Restaurants, 150 Hotels, 150 Houses and 150 Gardens, 150 Golf Courses You Need to Visit Before You Die is the newest addition to the successful 150 series. Here are the most beautiful golf courses in the world presented in a handy and handsomely illustrated guide. The golf courses bundled in this book are located all over the world and can be found along coastlines, in the mountains, in deserts, and along lakes, and they are all accessible to the public. “When great golf courses meet the world’s most stunning land forms, it makes for the most epic experience in the game.” – GolfPass

After 150 Bars, 150 Restaurants, 150 Hotels, 150 Houses, 150 Gardens and 150 Golf Courses, there is now 150 Vineyards You Need to Visit Before You Die. For wine lovers, both professionals and hobbyists, vineyards are must-see places. They are found in the most scenic regions in the world where you can wander for hours, or unexpectedly, right in the middle of the city. This beautifully illustrated book, the latest in the 150.. series, presents a carefully curated selection of the world’s most exceptional vineyards, from Japan to Argentina and South Africa to France. In this guide you’ll discover tips on how to visit the vineyards, along with interesting stories about each place, and – of course – where to taste wine. The perfect gift for the wine aficionado who dreams of travelling the world.

For the enthusiastic reader and book lover, browsing through a bookshop is an irreplaceable experience. American author Elizabeth Stamp selected the 150 most unique bookstores in the world that are worth making a detour to visit. From Australia to France, and Japan to the United States, the bookstores here range from establishments that have been around for decades, to newly opened shops. Each shop has been selected for an outstanding feature, either an interesting backstory, a unique collection, or a fabulous setting. This handsomely bound book, the latest in the 150 series, has inspiring photographs and a wealth of information on each location.

La Gara is an 18th-century country estate in Jussy, a village near Geneva, Switzerland. The buildings have been carefully restored by Swiss architect Verena Best, who also added inspired touches to the interior design. The renowned Belgian landscape designer Erik Dhont reinterpreted and subtly redesigned the gardens and surrounding grounds, completed by a palindrome-like labyrinth designed by Swiss artist Markus Raetz.

This new book tells the full story of the La Gara estate and illustrates its beauty. The essays investigate various aspects of its preservation and restoration of buildings and gardens and the contemporary interventions. They highlight features such as the historic watering system for the gardens and the fishponds, and look at the specific Genevan garden tradition and characteristics of the rural landscape around Jussy with its biodiversity. Moreover, they contextualise La Gara with the ‘ferme ornée’, a villa with agricultural and ornamental features following ancient Roman models. The beautiful volume is rounded out with newly commissioned photographs by renowned Swiss photographer Georg Aerni.

Those in the know are aware that Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel has a real-life counterpart in the Swiss Alps: The Waldhaus Sils, which has pleased and puzzled visitors for 111 years and become an icon of Swiss hospitality. Located above the small and pretty village of Sils Maria, near St. Moritz, it overlooks a striking landscape of forests, lakes and mountains and offers a combination of Belle Epoque flair and modern comfort. Its distinctive charm comes from the fact that the Waldhaus has been family-owned and operated ever since its grand opening on June 15, 1908. 111 Years of Waldhaus Sils ranges across the hotel’s life and history. Brief essays look at the hotel’s history and the broader context in which it exists. The book also shines a light on colourful members of the owning family and their dreams and work, interspersed with conversations with people who have known them. Beautifully illustrated with newly commissioned and historic photographs and documents, it is a tantalising glimpse into the life of an exceptional hotel in one of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. Text in French.

Pascale Naessens is a bestselling culinary author. With her books, she created a new vibe where people can enjoy food and lose weight at the same time. Her recipes are recommended by doctors and osteopaths and are the proof that tasty food can also be healthy. Natural Food That Makes You Happy presents delightful dishes that are easy to make and packed full of flavour; food that makes you happy, beautiful and energetic. This book is not a diet book, it is a way of living and thinking.

Since 150 Bars You Need to Visit Before You Die came out in 2018, more than 17,000 copies have been sold. Time for an updated version, with no less than 50 new bars. Discover which bars you must visit worldwide for their delicious cocktails, unique interiors or authentic atmosphere. Sommelier and spirits connoisseur Jurgen Lijcops once again takes you on a trip/bar crawl around the world and also gives you the best cocktail recipes en cours de route.

Jurgen Lijcops, author of the bestseller 150 Bars You Need to Visit Before You Die, selected the 150 wine bars you must visit, from Bordeaux to Cape Town, from Bangkok to Sydney. Some are unique because of their exquisite decor, others for their breathtaking views or their exceptional service. All of them have a unique wine list that will surprise even the most demanding connoisseurs.

“Reflecting the international food scene, this book presents a bucket list showing today’s most inspiring gourmet experiences.” – Amélie Vincent – The Foodalist

Chefs, gastronomy and lifestyle are hot topics. However, finding the ultimate dining experience around the world might be challenging and can be disappointing.

From Paris (Plaza Athénée, Septime) and Mexico City (Quintonil, Lorea) to Tokyo (Den, Florilège, Sushi Saito), Amélie Vincent, also known as The Foodalist, selects 150 must-visit restaurants around the world in her latest book 150 Restaurants You Need to Visit before You Die. These culinary hotspots promise a unique experience to the diners, through exquisite menus, original designs and creative chefs.

Founder of The Foodalist Communication Agency (www.thefoodalist.com), Amélie Vincent, is an expert in revealing culinary trends worldwide. She has the world’s best chefs in her network, and works with the most influential media around the world.

Thanks to her photographer’s eye and her experience as a culinary journalist, 150 Restaurants You Need to Visit before You Die is the ultimate bucket list for every single foodie and gourmet traveller and the sequel to the equally standout book 150 Bars You Need to Visit Before You Die ISBN: 9789401449120.

This book highlights and explores some of the world’s most extraordinary and luxurious spa destinations. It offers readers a curated list of 150 exceptional spas across various countries and regions, each renowned for its unique treatments, breathtaking locations, and exceptional wellness experiences. Includes detailed insights into each featured spa, its amenities, signature treatments, wellness philosophies, and the overall ambiance. Readers can expect to find a combination of destination spas, resort spas, urban retreats, and wellness centres that offer a diverse range of holistic therapies, relaxation techniques, and rejuvenating experiences. It could serve as both a practical travel guide for spa enthusiasts and a source of inspiration for those seeking ultimate relaxation and self-care experiences. A bucket-list reference for spa enthusiasts, travellers, and wellness seekers, providing a curated selection of some of the world’s most indulgent and transformative spa experiences.

Hotels continue to appeal to the imagination. The sector re-invents itself time and time again and sets the limits for the ultimate overnight stay. But which hotels offer you a once in a lifetime experience? This book lists the ultimate top 150 hotels, compiled by travel and lifestyle journalist Debbie Pappyn. All hotels guarantee a unique experience: a unique view or location, the incredible luxury or inimitable charm, the sophisticated design, the service or simply manta rays and sea turtles swimming under your bed… Debbie Pappyn visited more than 1000 hotels. She draws from her own experience, adds her ultimate wish list and gives you the reason why you have to stay there. This is a revised and updated version of the ultimate ‘bucket list hotel guide’ and one of the 10 books in the highly successful 150 series.