Centerstage is always the star.
The jewel of the property, the Central Courtyard has been a focal and gathering point for the Castle at Cornwall for a century. It is back-dropped by the castle on one side and pine-covered mountains and waterfall on the other. The dark greenish blues of the pines and the gray-green and silver lichen clinging to the trees set the tone and create the perfect palette to work with.
At the center of the courtyard is an iron trellised well, part of an ingenious waterfall system that runs throughout the property. Getting it up and running, is a project for another time, but working with a good well will be a treat. Other features include iron gates, roman pillars, a huge stone fireplace, and a staircase leading, well . . . somewhere up.
Given the scale of the Central Courtyard, the containers, furniture, and plantings have to be substantial enough to stand up to the imposing surroundings. Nothing dainty and delicate will stand a chance here. We inherited, with the purchase, a 1,000 lbs stone table (that’s not going anywhere!) and brought with us teak furniture which has weathered to a lovely gray/silver over the years. We also inherited some large urns and brought a few from our past.
So what does the average middle-aged couple do with a courtyard? Heck if I know. But I felt it was important to create a few areas for outdoor dining and entertaining that take advantage of the views. And with the key garden fixtures in place, I can start thinking about more intimate sitting areas, scale, color scheme, and placement of the plant material. I am researching, shopping and planning, and waiting for warm weather. So stay tuned for an invitation to the social distancing party!!
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