About This Project

This garden epitomises that moment of transition when the kids’ trampoline finally goes and the grown-ups reclaim their outside space. The project was sparked by the planning of a new, contemporary kitchen extension, with wide bi-fold doors leading straight out into the garden. It was essential, then, that the garden should provide a continuation of the new dining and entertaining space. It should also look spectacular when viewed through all those new glass doors.

The design of this garden was geometrical and contemporary. The old garage was removed and replaced with a modern garden office. The main structure was provided by two large raised planters, made from gorgeously tactile poured concrete. Lighting was a key feature of this design: a dramatic but subtle glow was created by under-lighting the built-in bench and by using spike lights hidden amongst the borders.

The planting here included plenty of architectural plants: contemporary grasses, ferns, spiky Libertia and Bamboo, as well as rounded topiary shapes to provide solidity. Whilst the planting around the lawn used calm green and white tones, we added plenty of fiery colours in the raised planting, with orange Geums, yellow Crocosmia, scarlet Penstemons and hot pink Dianthus.