Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) Practice Exam

The distinguishing feature of English gardens is their emphasis on free-flowing naturalism. This style is characterized by the use of informal layouts that mimic the shapes and patterns found in nature, highlighting the importance of harmony with the surrounding landscape. The design often integrates meandering paths, unfenced spaces, and curving beds that create a more organic feel compared to the rigid and formal designs seen in other garden styles. In English gardens, plants are typically used in a way that allows them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, creating an effect that feels spontaneous and uncontrived. This naturalistic approach contrasts sharply with more geometric or linear arrangements, which impose order through strict symmetry and formal boundaries. Additionally, although some English gardens may incorporate exotic plants, the focus remains primarily on a native and local palette that complements the natural setting. The distinction of English gardens lies in their ability to evoke a sense of pastoral beauty and tranquility, celebrating the imperfections of nature rather than adhering to architectural precision.