Outside a little cottage at Giverney, all winding paths lead to a painted wooden bridge subtly arching across silent waters. From lightest to darkest, and in tones which change with the angle of the sun, the many shades of green are reflected in a lillied pond overhung by tree and brush. Monet’s beloved garden is immortalized in his paintings and perhaps best represents the classic French country style – idyllic and natural, yet landscaped for maximum beauty and to evoke all the romance of a summer’s dream.

Within verdant walls, the noble and elite classes of the time exercised their skill for socializing. Public displays of fashion and etiquette were de rigeur, and the formalized French garden was ideally designed for strolling. Long curvilinear paths of stone or lawn connected to and trail off of a central path. The main avenue typically led to a large fountain or amphitheater. Amongst aristocratic French, strolling was considered a luxury and a signal of wealth. Public strolling gardens became the stage on which to see and be seen, and one more arena in which the bourgeoisie battled for aristocratic rank.

In the larger French cities, the garden was also a place of rest and retreat from the fast pace of urban life. In the 18th century, a more natural garden was gaining popularity. The historic Jardin de Luxemborg in Paris is acres of land dedicated to none other than urban escape. Peaceful relaxation takes form in the various sights, scents, and comforts of nature. Flowers did not become the focus of the French garden until the 19th century.

The formal garden remains well represented in France, and has come to represent the French garden style in many ways. The classic French garden is a sectioned garden. Short hedges are lined up to form one or other choice geometric shapes. Beds are planted with flowers, vegetables, or herbs. Fountains and water features are key elements and are arranged symmetrically. Classic roman architectural motifs provide both focus and artistic unity.