Garden Retreats

As simple as two chairs beneath a shady tree or a low bench beside a sheltering tangle of wildflowers, a garden retreat is a relaxing and intimate space in which to read a book, enjoy a quiet conversation, or sip a cup of tea. Author Barbara Ashmun understands that every outdoor sanctuary is a soulful expression of its creator, and her book, "Garden Retreats, " will help readers define their own personal style while explaining the elements that can be used to create a private retreat. Here are tips on creating sheltering walls, alles, and arbors, as well as suggestions for combining plants, trees, garden structures, and furniture to yield the most relaxing combinations of color, shape, and texture. Beautifully illustrated throughout with color photographs of an array of enchanting garden refuges, this is a wonderful dream book as well as a truly practical companion.