Describe the character and uses of the different urban green spaces created in the 19th century and explored on our Field Study, and the ways in which these parks are relevant and beneficial to 21st century urban living.

Green spaces have been designed, cultivated, and used for many different purposes from the 19^th century on, and today we find that a lot of the same methods are still being used. Two contrasting gardens created in the 19^th century include Biddulph Grange, and Chatsworth. These two gardens were created with contrasting views, yet each accomplished to cultivate a particular atmosphere to enhance a certain experience.

            Biddulph Grange, built by James Bateman, was designed to contrast art and nature. The method Bateman used to create a certain style to this garden was one of excess and drama. The garden was built in sections to display a collection of rare and exotic plants from all around the world. Each section was very different, and represented a different traditional gardens from a different place, including Japanese, Egyptian, and English Victorian gardens. This method was used to create a truly unique experience for the visitor, and was also a way to show off Bateman’s rare collection of plants.

            Chatsworth, built around the same time period by Sir Joseph Paxton, had a very differing atmosphere. Although both men constructed their gardens motivated by a love of plants, the outcomes were very different. Chatsworth is a much more subdued garden, although it is no less intricate or sophisticated. Paxton also designed Chatsworth to have different sections each to frame a specific element, including the conservatory, rockery, and the emperor fountain. Paxton developed and cultivated this particular garden over decades, although he is best known for his work on the Crystal Palace.

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            The Green spaces we visited around Copenhagen, although using some of the same design features as gardens of the past, seem to have very different intended uses. The first park we visited, Ørstedsparken, has an enclosed, inward looking style executed using the natural landscape, the downward slopes and trees surrounding the area. It is clear that the use of this park is for quiet walks, contemplation, or gathering to sit and picnic with friends and family. The main focus of the park is the central structure, a small pond, and a few statues and wildflowers growing alongside. 

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            Another park we visited, the Botanical Gardens, has some of the same features, and also allowed for long walks through winding paths to enjoy the flowers, but also has another use. Similar to the gardens of the 19^th century, the green houses in the Botanical Gardens house exotic plants that can be used to scientific studies, or just to draw in visitors. However, the benches around the paths and in the rock structures also allow for a peaceful, contemplative experience, and I have a feeling this garden, as well as most of the others in Copenhagen, were inspired by a love of plants and nature as well.

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             These urban green spaces are crucial to city life because they allow people a much needed escape. The inward focusing, enclosed style of most of the gardens we visited is deliberate, and allows people to truly seek refuge from their daily lives, among the wildflowers, exotic plants, and towering trees. There is something for everyone in these gardens, as long as you are willing to take the time and look.