Spring bulbs, essential within a small space
Bunker Street
This project although small was very challenging. It was not possible to work with the existing levels. As a result of this, the whole area has been remodeled. A small terrace of over 100 years old, the client has re-designed the interior to an exceptionally high standard. Using clever architecture and modern materials the interior needed to extend it’s modern clean lines into the garden in order for both areas to work.
A terrace area was excavated to become an extension of the lounge and take advantage of the retracting glazed wall. This area now works perfectly with the architecture and interior design. No matter the weather or time of day the line between these two spaces is now blurred as inside becomes out and vice versa.
Although it was a huge amount of work, excavating the steps to the side of the garden has created a far more pleasing visual link between the upper and lower terrace from both directions. The view from the summer house has also been opened up with further excavations and remodeling of the existing levels. This lower terrace area is practical and far more visually pleasing with wide steps that cope with the changing levels and offer an invitation.
The raised planting area works with the existing levels within the garden. The soil was good and utilising the space in this way reduced costs and created interest. Concentrating all of the planting into one border also created an opportunity for planting with instant impact. The small specimen tree adds a third dimension that links the roof levels of both buildings together.
Keeping the boundary fences dark in colour and allowing hedges to green this vertical space where possible invites the neighbouring woodland into the garden. Borrowing the surrounding maturity is an important aspect of setting the garden within the landscape of the area.
Highwoods
Like many large modern executive houses, this one has a relatively small garden area surrounding it. The space needed to be flexible, low maintenance and reflect the exacting style of the clients.
The first item on the wish list. A large decked area for entertaining guests. It had to be intimate enough for small gatherings and flexible enough to accommodate larger groups. By creating the illusion of a sunken garden, a sense of intimacy has been achieved. Coping the low retaining walls with wood creates additional seating.
Second item on the wish list. Large terrace outside the patio doors. By framing this terrace with planting it has been separated from the dining area by both a physical barrier and a change of materials. The change in levels and materials along with the planting softens the effect and helps to maintain the intimacy of the dining terrace. Linking different areas and levels with generous steps, creates an invitation to explore and enter. Step lights add to the mood in the evening.
Keeping the boundary fences dark in colour and allowing hedges to green this vertical space where possible has invited the surrounding woodland into the garden. Enabling this small space to borrow the surrounding maturity of the woodland is an important aspect of the design.
Order and uniformity were important aspects of both the hard and soft landscaping elements for these clients. Clipped hedging and topiaries create all year round structure whilst softer infill planting provide seasonal colour and interest.