Why are we so obsessed with lawns?
This article explores the cultural and historical significance of the lawn as a staple of British horticulture and landscape design. It examines why lawn maintenance has become a popular, almost ritualistic activity that bridges the gap between nature and the built environment.
Why it matters
It provides insight into the psychological and social drivers behind common suburban landscaping practices and our relationship with nature.
It is arguable that, for all our other achievements in the sphere of gardening, the most important and iconic contribution of British horticulture to the world is the lawn. Lawns possess obvious appeal as an element in landscape design . Of all soft landscaping features, they are by far the most tolerant of wear. This means they can bridge the huge chasm in practicality between the severe utility of hard landscaping and the majority of soft landscaping that is designed to be looked at, rather than as a space to be inhabited.
The article is a cultural observation piece with no political or economic agenda.
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