Field Guide to Outside Style: An In-depth Review

Imagine spending a leisurely afternoon outdoors in a beautifully designed home landscape or an ornamental garden. There’s truly nothing quite like it. But if your own space isn’t living up to your vision, fear not! You’re in luck – Ryan McEnaney’s “Field Guide to Outside Style” is here to guide you through the process of transforming your outdoor area into a masterpiece.

Field Guide to Outside Style: A Closer Look

Table of Contents

First Impressions
Meet Ryan McEnaney
Exploring the Sections

First Impressions

They say never judge a book by its cover, but in this case, you absolutely can! The cover of “Field Guide to Outside Style” beckons you in with captivating images of cozy outdoor seating, vibrant landscaping, and tastefully arranged ornamental gardens.

Available in hardcover or on Kindle through Amazon, this book serves dual purposes: as a practical guide and a visually stunning coffee table book. With glossy pages adorned with photos by Tracy Walsh, illustrated landscape designs, and a plant recommendation chart, this 208-page book is a treasure trove of inspiration.

Meet Ryan McEnaney

Ryan McEnaney, a plantsman, designer, and gardening communicator, is the creative force behind this guide. With a rich background in the nursery industry and a flair for writing and education, Ryan’s warm and friendly writing style makes you feel like you’re chatting with a close friend rather than reading a manual.

Drawing from his experiences at Bailey Nurseries and his media appearances, Ryan’s expertise shines through in every page of the book. His passion for gardening and design is infectious, making the learning process enjoyable and engaging.

Exploring the Sections

From the introduction to the final chapter, “Field Guide to Outside Style” takes you on a journey of self-discovery and outdoor design exploration. Let’s delve into each section:

Introduction: Ryan sets the tone with a casual and encouraging introduction, reassuring readers that embarking on a landscaping project doesn’t require an advanced degree in horticulture. He emphasizes the long-lasting impact of landscaping, encouraging readers to think beyond the present.
Polka Dots or Stripes: In this chapter, Ryan cleverly connects fashion preferences to landscaping styles. By considering color, texture, and furniture choices akin to selecting a wardrobe, readers gain fresh insights into their outdoor style sensibilities.
Date Night with Your Space: Building on the fashion analogies, this chapter dives deeper into the design process, from assessing current landscapes to practical considerations like soil types and budgets. It’s like a romantic dinner date with your outdoor space, where every detail matters.
Guardrails: Setting boundaries and defining project scopes are the focus here. Ryan prompts readers to consider the purpose behind their landscaping endeavors and how they align with lifestyle choices. It’s a reality check that keeps projects grounded in practicality.
Designing Your Space: Introducing three distinct style personas – Naturalist, Minimalist, and Classic – this chapter helps readers identify and embody their unique landscaping approaches. With detailed illustrations and case studies, the concepts come to life in vivid detail.
Recipe Cards: Who doesn’t love a good recipe? In this final chapter, Ryan offers plant palettes tailored to each persona and climate, allowing readers to mix and match plants like a botanical chef. The visual appeal of plant pairings and recommendations adds a creative twist to landscape design.

Final Reflections

As we wrap up our journey through “Field Guide to Outside Style,” it’s evident that Ryan McEnaney’s book is more than just a how-to manual – it’s a storytelling adventure through the world of outdoor design. While some readers may crave a more structured approach, the book’s layered organization and conversational tone make it a delightful read for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

One minor critique is the absence of USDA Hardiness Zones for the recommended plants, a detail that could enhance the book’s practical value. Additionally, readers abstaining from alcohol might find the casual references to cocktails a tad off-putting.

In conclusion, “Field Guide to Outside Style” is a valuable resource for those seeking inspiration and guidance in landscaping projects. Whether you’re starting from scratch or enhancing existing designs, Ryan’s insights and creative vision will spark your imagination and pave the way for stunning outdoor transformations.

So, grab a copy of “Field Guide to Outside Style,” pour yourself a refreshing beverage (or not), and embark on a journey of landscape discovery. Your outdoor oasis awaits!

Do you have any thoughts on “Field Guide to Outside Style”? We’d love to hear your feedback! And if you’re eager for more gardening book recommendations, check out our curated list of reading options to fuel your green thumb passion.

Remember, your outdoor style journey begins with a single page turn. Happy gardening!