Southern Garden Research and Exploration

About the Project

Embarking on a week-long internship in the enchanting southern region, our journey unveiled the splendors of both Shanghai and Suzhou, immersing us in the exploration of contemporary and classical gardens. Our footsteps led us to captivating destinations such as Chenshan Botanical Garden, Binjiang Forest Park, The Bund in Shanghai, and the cherished classical gardens of Zhuozhengyuan (Humble Administrator's Garden), Wangshiyuan (Master of the Nets Garden), Liuyuan (Lingering Garden), Shizilin (Lion Grove Garden), and Suzhou Museum.

The internship unfolded in two distinct segments: the first, a 3-day venture through Shanghai, honed our focus on contemporary urban gardens in China, unearthing valuable insights into the evolving concepts and trajectories of urban landscape design. The second, spanning 4 days in Suzhou, transported us into the realm of private classical gardens in the Jiangnan region. Here, we delved into the annals of Chinese garden history, untangling the intricacies of classical garden creation through hands-on exploration.

Amid our journey, we engaged in a rich tapestry of activities, including on-site visits, meticulous measurements, guided explanations by our esteemed professors, meticulous online research, and dedicated sketching. By meticulously observing and imbibing the essence of each project, capturing detailed notes, dissecting the findings, and introspecting on the experience, we masterfully bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Starting the Project

While the weight of internship assignments can often feel burdensome, the profound joy that accompanies fieldwork is undeniably genuine. Through the labyrinth of urban steel and concrete, we wandered, our ears attuned to the whispered narratives of bygone garden custodians, tales shared with us by the ever-watchful security guards of Wangshi Garden. Amidst the green expanse of Chenshan Botanical Garden, we even partook in spirited rolling competitions on its grassy slopes.

Armed with a mindset of humility and armed with a formidable collection of assignments, we transformed into dedicated voyagers amidst the bustling crowd. We traversed the meticulously crafted realms of landscape designers, with an insatiable thirst to uncover the very essence of these garden creators. Amidst the exhaustion and effort, it is precisely these moments that lend depth and authenticity to our journeys, preventing them from becoming mere superficial excursions. The recollection of rolling on the grass brings a tactile memory to my skin, the faint itchiness serving as a reminder of the experience.

Speaking of seasons, autumn truly emerges as a tapestry of exploration, weaving its charm seamlessly into our journey.

Results Presentation

Summary

Regarding this field study, my intuition tells me that whether it's the modern urban gardens of Shanghai or the classical Jiangnan gardens of Suzhou, each holds its own charm.

Upon reflection, I sometimes find myself drawn to the simplicity of modern gardens. Their straightforwardness is more efficient and effective. At other times, I find a stronger affinity for classical gardens. They carry a deep sentiment within their subtlety, with stories hidden in every detail and an unmistakable charm.

Even though these two styles are so different, they both seem to serve as commas in the sentences of our lives, urging us to slow down, pause, and truly experience ourselves while appreciating the beauty around us. I believe this is the enchantment of gardens.