This charming English-style garden is located in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, and was once part of the renowned 47-acre Wharton-Sinkler estate built in the 1920s in the style of a grand English manor house. Donated to the University of Pennsylvania in 1971, the property was subdivided and sold several years ago. This house once comprised the farm buildings of the estate, and the current owners are developing the gardens in true English style.
This garden was on one of the tours at the annual conference in July of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). The sunken courtyard has crushed granite walkways edged in brick; clipped germander (Teucrium chamaedrys), Beauty Briar
(Eleutherococcus sieboldianus) under-planted with lavender, boxwood, and many colorful perennials.
The 16th century limestone roof tiles, covered with moss, were brought over from England, and the house, in the English cottage style, was renovated and then "connected" to form a unique residence. These particular farm buildings of the Wharton Sinkler estate were designed by Philadelphia architect Robert McGoodwin.
The current owners are planning to add a vegetable and fruit garden, perennial beds, and also a croquet lawn.
Much more to come in the future on the gardens of Philadelphia.
(click on images for larger view)
Comments