Create a versatile outdoor space for entertaining, dining, and socialising, whilst preserving the mature trees and creating a shade-tolerant planting scheme.
The garden undergoes a redesign that maximises its potential. To manage the challenging terrain and the mature birch tree's sensitive root system, the garden is divided into two controlled levels. Natural turf flanks a central limestone path, which also provides the necessary support for the garden's graceful transformation. Two distinct patios are created, each offering unique areas for relaxation, entertainment, and dining. The rear patio is elegantly enveloped by a natural dry stone wall, serving as a captivating focal point. Tegula block detailing borders the limestone path, introducing rhythm, proportion, and scale, while creating an appealing stepping stone effect.
Shade-loving plants are selected to thrive in the garden's challenging conditions. White perennial foxgloves are introduced to add cool-coloured accents against the backdrop of the modern slatted fence. Evergreen topiary balls are artfully arranged to provide year-round structure, and baby's tears serve as ground cover. Large, eye-catching drifts of ferns soften the garden's atmosphere, while bright areas feature allium globemasters to complement the topiary balls. A circular bed surrounding the mature birch tree is adorned with catmint, adding a rounded contrast to the garden's angular lines.
To add a modern touch, a contemporary slatted fence is erected along the right-hand boundary, providing a sleek contrast to the garden. Sleepers are strategically used to retain the lawn levels, and the limestone material, chosen for its low porosity, offers a practical solution for the heavy shade, minimising algae accumulation and providing easy maintenance. To enhance functionality and ambiance, LED lights are discreetly integrated within the stone wall at the rear.
The design's adaptability shone through as the client returned with a request for an extension to the existing patio and the addition of a substantial timber garden shelter. With minimal disruption to the existing features, the shelter was seamlessly incorporated into the garden, blending harmoniously with the original design.