Two years ago, Tanglewood met with a client who envisioned creating a unique focal piece on their property for hosting large gatherings out in the garden. In further conversations with the family, Gibson Homes, and Tom Bendt Interior Design, we uncovered the family’s love of Asian-inspired designs. With a beautiful art collection showcased throughout their home, they were missing that “wow factor” in the garden and the family knew exactly what to put there – a replica of the historic Chinese Pavilion at Cassan!
The perfect piece to tie the gardens together, this gazebo would be a tranquil place where friends and family would gather, and when the parties were over, the family could enjoy sitting peacefully in the garden. In working with Gibson Homes and Tom Bendt Interior Design there were many unique elements we could play on from the original Chinese pavilion design.
After some deliberation, we decided on the following…
- To make a true statement piece, we needed to replicate the main shapes and architectural details of the historic pavilion. From the decorative cut-outs in the open-air windows and doors to the unique shape of the two-tiered roof to even the large columns surrounding the main structure – every detail was meticulously planned.
- The colors were another bold, but purposeful choice. The contrast between the dark and light colors makes this gazebo stand out amongst the beautiful green landscape.
It may be difficult to see at a distance, but the mix of sapele mahogany, steel, and copper plays an important role in the overall feel of the space. As you walk through the gazebo, you first are welcomed by these grand, steel doors. Gliding the doors open to step inside, the decorated millwork immediately draws your eyes up to the ceiling. On the exterior, the subtle copper roof, gutters, and spire finial were the finishing touches that brought together the overall design.
At the foot of the gazebo, notice how the front appears to be almost floating above the pond below. A fun design element, this was also a way for us to bring the gazebo away from the edge of the property line for additional privacy. With the gazebo sitting atop the hill, the pond is nestled within the valley below and to the left and right, Tom thought to also include additional seating for guests built-in into the landscape!
Now with our team off the job site and the remaining touches by Gibson Homes and Tom are being completed, the family cannot wait to host their first gathering in the gardens!
Project Team:
- Builder: GIBSON HOMES LLC
- Designer: TOM BENDT INTERIOR DESIGN
- Design + Build: TANGLEWOOD CONSERVATORIES
For more information about garden follies and gazebos, talk with our team at 410-479-4700 ext.104 or explore the projects below for more inspiration!