What is it that sets a Feng Shui garden apart from any other designed space? In Feng Shui, the ancient! Chinese art of placement, the intention is to create spaces where the energy flows in a harmonious and auspicious manner; in reality, gardens may be created using basic good design principles with caveats to promote energy flow. What ultimately distinguishes a Feng Shui garden is its meaning that is inherent in the plan. In most Western gardens, attention is paid to the forms, shapes and materials, but none is given to the concepts that move our gardens from beautiful spaces to places-helping us contemplate our connection to the earth and to the spirit that imbibes us. It is this lifting of the significance of the garden that enchants us when we see what the Chinese and Japanese have created in their gardens. These gardens are not constructed to recreate nature, but rather to capture the essence of nature in forms, shapes and materials for the purpose of lifting the human spirit. We don't have to clone these genera to create gardens that are meaningful. We can create beautiful, restorative, healthy spaces using designs, plants and materials in concert with our houses, land and aesthetic sensibilities. What can be learned from these gardens is the practice of designing with natural shapes, incorporating the five senses into the garden, and introducing elements like water features into the landscape's natural environments. In many cultures, plants are revered for their healing powers, and so deeper meanings are attached to their existence in a Feng Shui garden. Using plants that have meaning helps to lift the spirit every time one sees that plant. For instance, in Chinese culture, the pine is associated with longevity; every time this tree is encountered in the garden, the owner is reminded of the potential for that aspect in their life, and of the energy that provides that life force. LASN The study of Feng Shui is a lifelong endeavor under which nuances we discovered and learned constantly. A Landscape Architect who wishes to use Feng Shui principles can begin with the dictum "Do No Harm." Here are a few of the principles that can be followed to insure good energy flow in the garden. ?EUR??,,????'???? Design the front walkway using curves to soften the entry. Nature abhors a straight line, and so a straight line path to the front door from the street serves as a jarring force for the occupants of the house. ?EUR??,,????'???? Convey an open, spacious, grand feeling with an entrance. Narrow, restricted paths feel limiting and can adversely affect a person's fortunes. ?EUR??,,????'???? Select and maintain healthy plants (especially trees) that reveal positive energy on a property. Well-cared for trees and large shrubs should not block the front entry or walkway. Trees should be selected and located to be in scale with the house, as large trees located close to the house will overwhelm and overshadow its occupants. ?EUR??,,????'???? Include ponds, pools and fountains on the property. Water--which symbolizes money-- should be kept clean and fresh. ?EUR??,,????'???? Arrange plantings around the house that do not overwhelm the house and cut off light to the interior. Being "closed in" by plants can adversely affect a person's career and health. ?EUR??,,????'???? Incorporate the five senses when designing the landscape to engage your client and good fortune into the garden. Man's interaction with nature promotes life force and is a healing experience for him. The study of Feng Shui is a fascinating art and science that is being widely recognized in our modem society. It has gained public recognition because it fulfills the need in all of us to return to a sense of connection. This is our gift to the world as landscape designers. We can nurture this healing aspect of our profession for ourselves, our clients and for the earth.