Four Foot Farm

Bar Harbor, Maine

A beautiful and informal setting with agrarian history informs the approach with an emphasis on humble materials and the simple genius of rural craftsmanship. This landscape has evolved slowly over time allowing for long-term observations to inform the design process. This patient and more relaxed approach results in refinements that allow the sites inherent character to be revealed and enhanced over time. Goals for this project include creating habitat with native species, reducing lawn and carbon footprint, incorporating a diversity of edible landscape elements, and complimenting the historical aspects of the site with low-input gardens and landscaping.

Sun rising over the backyard that gets used and enjoyed by the entire family… especially in Summer!

Sun rising over the backyard that gets used and enjoyed by the entire family… especially in Summer!

Granite and fieldstone walls frame the entrance walk and native plantings.

Granite and fieldstone walls frame the entrance walk and native plantings.

The wild edge of the garden where robust grasses and perennials blend with self-sowing annual and biennial wildflowers from the fields.

The wild edge of the garden where robust grasses and perennials blend with self-sowing annual and biennial wildflowers from the fields.

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Granite steps climb up the ledge, weaving between pockets of perennials, grasses and mosses.

Granite steps climb up the ledge, weaving between pockets of perennials, grasses and mosses.

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Globe thistle and Switchgrass thriving in a sunny, south-facing bed against the house.

Globe thistle and Switchgrass thriving in a sunny, south-facing bed against the house.

Naturalistic perennial plantings that include some tall species including Globe thistle and natives such as wild bergamot.

Naturalistic perennial plantings that include some tall species including Globe thistle and natives such as wild bergamot.

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Mixed perennial plantings enliven the backyard with a succession of interesting forms, textures and colors throughout the seasons.

Mixed perennial plantings enliven the backyard with a succession of interesting forms, textures and colors throughout the seasons.

See also