Barvikha Estate, near Moscow, is a delightful example of a modern classical style in which tradition has not been allowed to impede the less restrictive aesthetics of the 21st Century. This design alignment, a signature mark of IL NATURE projects, is inspiring, with its unique and ageless landscaping.
A rectangular pond, along the central axis, in front of the main entrance of the manor building, reflects the sky, trees and the manor house itself.
This enchanting spectacle is created by the water reaching the upper level of the high stone boards, which are inclined inwards a little, producing the mirror-like effect. The strict geometry of the pond reflects the principles of classicism, softening and freshening the framework formed by the cotoneaster bushes. Cotoneaster has also been used to embellish the entrance area, and is a feature of the hedges in the rose and apple tree gardens and next to the staff entrance.
A rectangular pond, along the central axis, in front of the main entrance of the manor building, reflects the sky, trees and the manor house itself.
This enchanting spectacle is created by the water reaching the upper level of the high stone boards, which are inclined inwards a little, producing the mirror-like effect. The strict geometry of the pond reflects the principles of classicism, softening and freshening the framework formed by the cotoneaster bushes. Cotoneaster has also been used to embellish the entrance area, and is a feature of the hedges in the rose and apple tree gardens and next to the staff entrance.
Aspects of a regular French garden, a hallmark of IL NATURE ethos, are evoked by the levelling-out of the parking zone and the delicate, discreet use of shaped trees. The crowns of hornbeam trees personify the art of topiary, while fifteen lime trees, planted in line, look majestic.
The colours decorating the front of the buildings complement the landscaping. The use of shades of sage in painting walls, columns and the second-floor balustrade blends with the foliage of the garden so that neither the manor itself nor its surroundings look austere. The overall aesthetic is further enhanced by the contrast between the main building, with its classic design, and the modern emphasis in the construction of the open terrace and lattice-glazed outhouse.
The garden itself boasts the best of both worlds. French-style rational geometry is accompanied by the romantic feel of the English landscape garden.
To help shape the terrain, time-honoured European and blue spruces were chosen for their visually-appealing features. Sweetwoods, such as apple, cherry and plum trees, echo the traditions and homeliness of Russian manors, alongside the original architecture and creative landscaping.
The colours decorating the front of the buildings complement the landscaping. The use of shades of sage in painting walls, columns and the second-floor balustrade blends with the foliage of the garden so that neither the manor itself nor its surroundings look austere. The overall aesthetic is further enhanced by the contrast between the main building, with its classic design, and the modern emphasis in the construction of the open terrace and lattice-glazed outhouse.
The garden itself boasts the best of both worlds. French-style rational geometry is accompanied by the romantic feel of the English landscape garden.
To help shape the terrain, time-honoured European and blue spruces were chosen for their visually-appealing features. Sweetwoods, such as apple, cherry and plum trees, echo the traditions and homeliness of Russian manors, alongside the original architecture and creative landscaping.
The configuration of the garden is delicate, almost along impressionistic lines. A decorative middle layer is formed by bushes such as Euonymus planipes (spindle trees), the hydrangea “Annabel”, waxberry Levigatus and meadowsweet Vangutta (indispensable in northern latitudes), Stephanandra and lilac, May and Alba roses.
The lowest layer of the plants consists of mixed redivive borders while a small rose garden completes the composition. As with all IL NATURE projects, the garden is beautiful throughout all the seasons, any time of day.
The lighting has been well thought out. Functional lights are built into the paved surface of the roads. Original, shining cubes are a feature of the children’s playground, and similar models provide enchanting illumination for the bushes. The overall effect after sunset leaves a vivid, striking impression, a tribute to the landscape designer’s flair for creating masterpieces in both space and time.
The lowest layer of the plants consists of mixed redivive borders while a small rose garden completes the composition. As with all IL NATURE projects, the garden is beautiful throughout all the seasons, any time of day.
The lighting has been well thought out. Functional lights are built into the paved surface of the roads. Original, shining cubes are a feature of the children’s playground, and similar models provide enchanting illumination for the bushes. The overall effect after sunset leaves a vivid, striking impression, a tribute to the landscape designer’s flair for creating masterpieces in both space and time.