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 Garden before construction

The owners of this long, very sloping garden, dominated by immensely tall Ash trees, had lived with it for nearly thirty years. In this time, much of the planting had out grown its space and the rest looked very tired. Nearing retirement, John wanted to spend his time tending the garden and growing vegetables but felt that the shape of the garden and the planting needed a designer’s eye.

A patio had recently been laid in a sweeping S-shaped curve. The main factor in the brief was made very clear: “No straight lines, please!”

Besides this constraint the garden was to have a ‘wow factor’ focal point, which would be in keeping  with the requested Country-style planting.

My clients’ desire for a restful, flowing, fulsome garden was achieved by simplifying the shape of the lawn then taking a stepping stone path in a sinuous curve from the patio, through a good area of lawn (grandchildren were expected) to a small island bed. Here an old terracotta urn was recycled as a water feature, surrounded by grass and perennial planting and sited within easy sound and view of a wooden seat.

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 Garden after construction

The path continues through the circular arches, planted with colourful and scented climbers, dividing the sensual garden area from the more practical space.

At the back of the garden a circle of raised veg. beds was designed in the sunniest patch near to the existing shed and greenhouse.

Stone globe lights were used to subtly light the pathway at night and to give a gentle glow to an evening

reverie on the banana bench.

“Gilly’s design transformed our garden completely. Throughout the year it is great to see so many different plants growing. Visitors to our house are always wowed by what they see and two years on we are still delighted when we look out onto our lovely garden.”

 J & M G. Hemel Hempstead