Outer Spaces

This flashy volume from gardener Gavin--who's well known in the U.K. for his TV show--focuses on outdoor landscaping and architecture. Gavin details 28 gardens (most of which are for contemporary structures) and helps readers envision how changes can be made to their own yards. Collages of photos dominate the book, which is organized thematically with chapters on topics like""Unwind,""""Play,""""Inspire"" and""Dream."" In a chapter entitled""Party,"" for example, Gavin shows a stark metal-and-glass pavilion set within a wooded garden. A long table and wood-and-metal chairs appear inside the pavilion; outside, a water fountain bubbles from the ground. Gavin's plan layouts are clear and functional throughout the volume, but at times the orgy of images can overwhelm the reader. This book's over-the-top designs may not be suited to everyone's taste, but Gavin's obvious enthusiasm for his subject is likely to draw many readers in.