Garden Spotlight: John P. Humes Japanese Stroll Garden

Website: northshorelandalliance.org
Directions: Dogwood Ln, Mill Neck, NY 11765

John P. Humes (1921-1985) was an interdisciplinary, known for being the United States Ambassador to Austria. He had commissioned Stephen Morrell to revitalize the 7-acre landscape with the intention of it being opened to the public. Aligning with Japanese garden design principals and materials, it is a meditative and contemplative space. ​Throughout its history, the garden has undergone many evolutions with the latest being in 2017, when the North Shore Land Alliance purchased the garden and took ownership of its preservation.

Notice how the light passes through the foliage and hits the ground.

The curved path creates a sense of mystery, inspiring visitors to keep walking.

This garden does a fantastic job of celebrating Japanese garden features. A particular highlight of the garden is the Japanese Tea House. Observing the house and the space that it occupies, you are called to slow down and to appreciate where you are. The clean lines of the exterior of the house, as well as the green foliage surrounding it make you feel calm and at ease.

The scene from this window is using the landscape technique of "framing" the view.

The bamboo bordering the pond acts as a barrier or fence.

The windows are actually made of a thin mesh.

There are many ornaments along the strolling path, adding to the atmosphere of the garden. In parallel with the green foliage, these ornaments, specifically lanterns, stand out and call your attention with their pagoda-like design. They do not take away from the landscape, rather they seamlessly melt into it as if they'd been there all along.

In Japanese gardens, water is an essential feature. Did you know that water activates the parasympathetic nervous system? Being around water instantly relaxes you. 

A small, still-water rock basin.

A macro-view of the rock basin. Notice the rocks surrounding it, and the flashes of green from the plants.

An aerial view of the lily pond behind the Japanese Tea House adorn with lily pads.

If you're in need of contemplation, then visiting this garden is a must. It's a hidden gem in Long Island that contrasts the chaos of our inner world. The design and curation of this garden will leave you feeling inspired, and perhaps even a sense of clarity within yourself. After all, the only way to hear your inner world is through stillness. 

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” 
― Lao Tzu