Harmonious Nature and Hyde Park

For my walk through Hyde Park, I chose the theme of the park providing a place for the people of London to be closer to nature. Though Hyde Park is man-made, it is designed in such a way that makes it a great relief from the noise and dirt of the city. The open fields for sport or lounging, the classical design of the gardens, and the tranquil Serpentine lake all contribute to the unrushed quiet atmosphere of Hyde Park.






This is a visual representation of how being in Hyde Park makes one feel. To be specific, how it made me feel as I came into harmony with nature and autumness in Hyde Park. Hyde Park, while it is well treed and has an abundance of walking paths and gardens, it also has open fields. Some people play football (soccer, kids), some lounge, some make out, some be homeless, but all are able to enjoy the green grass and crisp air of autumn.




I took this picture because it shows that Hyde Park is man-made and manicured without being overbearingly manufactured or imposing. The gates are low and delicately designed, keeping park-goers off of the grass but not making them feel too resitricted. The benches also provide a comfortable way to lounge and relax under the trees.




In the Holocaust Memorial Gardens, there are a number of archways like this one. The arch is a common form in classical and Palladian architecture because it is considered to be harmonious with nature. It is man-made, but the person walking through this structure also has the impression of walking through under a canopy of tree branches and leaves, a natural arch.



The Serpentine Lake at Hyde Park provides a venue for recreation as well as reflection. Bodies of water are inherently peaceful, and bring a piece of the wilderness with them in the sound of waves on the shore and being able to float and bob on the lake in a boat.


Unfortunately, you have to pay to sit in these chairs and enjoy the lake. However, they are an icon in Hyde Park as well as other London parks. The fortunate ones with a few pounds to spare are able to blissfully enjoy being at harmony with nature while reclining in these adorable chairs near the lake.




Hyde Park offers another way of getting in touch with nature here on Rotten Row, where one can pay for riding lessons or to rent a horse to ride. While this is a bit more tamed than galloping through an open field, it is still a way to have a more rugged experience in the midst of the city.



This is another example of how the structures in Hyde Park remain unimposing while still serving their purpose. Symmetry and straight lines were used in classical architecture for their soothing and peaceful qualitites. Hyde Park is full of symmetry and parallels in the fences, tree-lines, and benches.



And finally, I end with a picture of Hailee and Holli being at one with nature and autumn. Though this isn't a common activity in Hyde Park, it is a recommended one. Be harmonious. Throw leaves around. Embrace nature.