At the top or 'Paris' end of Collins Street, in Melbourne's CBD, at the corner of Russell Street, sits the imposing St Michael's Uniting Church and its naturalistic garden.
Designed by one of this city's most celebrated architects, Joseph Reed, in 1866, its Romanesque arches, open cloisters and polychromatic brickwork belong to the 'Lombardic' style.
The planting, stonework and winding gravel paths give the church an air of peace, and to my eye, are completely in harmony with the formality of the building.
I've been passing here on my way to work. Just seeing it relaxes my eyes and my heart.
It's not what you'd expect to find. It was a brave move, I feel, to let such a simple design happen.
The garden itself is called 'Mingary,' a Gaelic word for 'the quiet place.' I quote from a sign: " For reflection and inspiration. A place to recover a vital serenity." Seen in the background are two rainwater-tanks, humble and utilitarian, yet comfortable against the grand architecture.
Looking out here across Collins Street, its charm is apparent, softening the view, putting a spring in an otherwise marching step.
Hello Faisal:
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful looking building St. Michael's appears to be. Victorian architecture at its best in every detail without, in any sense, becoming an apology to some other period. And how lovely to have the garden around it as a place for contemplation, meditation and/or prayer. Simply wonderful.
We do so agree with what you say about the rainwater butts. They are what they are and undisguised, as there might be the temptation to make them, they appear purposeful and functional and are completely at one with their surroundings.
Faisal, Much like Japanese rock gardens, one is beckoned in to find peace of mind and heart. How fortunate to have such a beautiful place to pass on the way to work. Bonnie
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Faisal. Are those Nandina I see?
ReplyDeleteHello Jane and Lance,
ReplyDeletethe Victorians have a reputation for dourness, yet despite their formality, they knew how to play. I'm fortunate, however much I want to get out into wide open spaces, to live in a city that retains much of its Victorian character.
Of course, many city churches have little garden around them. St Michael's could so easily have put up a barrier with a formal garden, yet has decided to open itself to the street.
Bonnie, cities can strangle the life they purport to encourage. Melbourne has grown hugely since I was a boy, yet without quiet pockets such as this, I'd find it un-liveable. Thankyou for your comment, Faisal.
ReplyDeleteYes, James, they are Nandina. Most of the plants are toughies. I'm glad you like something I myself find beckoning.
ReplyDeletei admire this garden too..not that i like big boulders ala 1970s much! BUT it is a refreshing landscape and there should/could be many more of them in public spaces...sadly the 'landscraper' look of the TV makeover type has become so very boringly prevalent........I have upped the anti on that score in my new public garden in Camperdown I hope!
ReplyDeleteI'm not too keen on the contrived makeover garden myself, Billy, and I'm a fan of Ellis Stones. I hope I can get down to Camperdown soon as see what you've done - it looks like it really refreshes the streetscape.
ReplyDeleteSeems a great walk to work, Faisal. I used to have a similar commute but I did find it often made me late as I so easily got distracted. D
ReplyDeleteWell, no, Dave...I simply pas the church. Where I work is in one of the rowdier, even seedier parts of the city. Yes, you could so easily just walk into certain gardens and not come out again until you find you've lost significant connection to the 'real' world...
DeleteI agree, it's a lovely building that is important historically and very attractive. The garden is much newer and very gentle and harmonious. There's a space inside too for reflection and meditation, and it's also a low cost counselling centre. I think there are lots of wonderful public spaces in Melbourne.
ReplyDeleteCatmint, hi. I'd like to see alot more space given over to greenery, in Melbourne. I'd like to see 'greening' being a primary goal. At the moment, I don't feel green spaces matter enough. I might be wrong, but the city seems to have become mighty congested.
Deletebeautiful serene garden, perhaps i'll see it in june/july!
ReplyDeleteWherever you go, here in Melbourne, Velma, I hope you have a lovely time!
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