Maria Finn, proprietor of Prospect & Refuge, is a garden designer and writer who specializes in ways nature is re-interpreted in urban life. Her excellent communication skills, wide breadth of knowledge, and ability to work closely with clients enhances the experience of working with this garden design and installation company. To read some of her garden related articles click here or join Maria on her blog CityDirt.net.

Maria draws inspiration from Prospect-Refuge—a theory developed by geographer Jay Appleton. It describes a space where we have the best view, but don’t feel exposed, or unprotected. It’s why we don’t like to sit with our backs to the door; it’s the view from a rocky cliff above a valley or standing on a rooftop terrace overlooking a city. Urban gardens that provide both retreat and perspective are examples of this philosophy.