It is nearly the summer solstice and a lot of people are making the most of the long summer days and enjoying outdoor living! These books show gorgeous gardens and outdoor living spaces, and also provide inspiration for rustic garden craft projects.

Veranda: The Art of Outdoor Living

outdoor living, Bookshelf: The Art of Outdoor LivingThe writer of this lush coffee table book is Lisa Newsom who founded Veranda magazine in 1977. So she knows what she is talking about and how to find the best outdoor living inspirations! The lavish full-page photos are a joy for anyone who loves outdoor spaces as an extension of the home. Photos include courtyards, pools, the gardens of a French chateau, and the gardens of well-known designers and gardeners. The journey takes you across the world, and what a dreamy journey it is!

Private Edens: Beautiful Country Gardens

outdoor living, Bookshelf: The Art of Outdoor LivingGarden design expert Jack Staub leads readers on a tour of 20 spectacular private country gardens in this handsome book. The 'Private Edens' are mainly in the northeast, and the gardens are not open to the general public. In fact, they are so private that the owners' names and exact locations are left anonymous. Still, you can have a peek at these beautifully designed sanctuaries, including the author's own Pennsylvania farm boasting a pondside pavilion and a romantic cherry-tree walk. One highlight is an exotic Asian–inspired garden in Maryland - apparently created by a princess from a Himalayan kingdom and her American husband!

Rustic Garden Projects

outdoor living, Bookshelf: The Art of Outdoor LivingIf you feel like being creative in the garden yourself (and perhaps you aren't quite as rich as a Himalayan princess!) this new book will give some ideas to enhance your outdoor living. The subtitle is: 'Step-by-Step Backyard Décor from Trellises to Tree Swings, Stone Steps to Stained Glass.' That pretty much says it all. The do-it-yourself garden projects range from a simple suet ball bird feeder to a more ambitious but wonderful moon gate of braided willow. Some of the easier ones might be fun to do with the kids or grandchildren too. How about a personalized walkway?

Do you have any photos of your outdoor living space to share with us? Or perhaps a garden project to tell us about? We are all ears! Tell us in the comment box below.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

It is nearly the summer solstice and a lot of people are making the most of the long summer days and enjoying outdoor living! These books show gorgeous gardens and outdoor living spaces, and also provide inspiration for rustic garden craft projects. Veranda: The Art of Outdoor Living The writer of this lush coffee table […]

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