Site Specifics
This garden design took place on a large plot with a level difference of nearly 4m, which ran from the back door down to the stream at the bottom of the garden. On the rear boundary, there was a wooded bank leading up to farmers’ fields.
The existing garden was difficult to maintain, and both of our retired clients had fallen on the slippery, sloped lawn, as there was no path or steps to provide safe access.
Client Brief
The client wanted a usable garden with improved access throughout, including over the stream. He wanted to grow large amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables, while also attracting pollinators into the garden. Being retired, he was happy to do general maintenance and continue working on his garden after our work was done, as this would be his full-time project.
Design Solution
An essential part of this garden design project was the ergonomic steps, which would allow easy access throughout the landscape, avoiding further mishaps or falls. The steps and access path have been installed to lead through the garden. They also separate the vegetable growing area from the large lawn, which our clients wanted to maintain for garden parties and marquees.
The existing stream was enhanced with native water-loving plants and two new bridges, providing improved circulation.
A large log cabin building was erected on the far side of the stream, which had multiple purposes. This garden room would operate as an office space, a tool storage, and a simple sanctuary to have a cup of tea while enjoying the views of the garden.
To develop this new garden design, we had to move a huge amount of soil to control the levels and define the new spaces. With the foundation levelled, the garden was then extensively planted with a mixture of herbaceous perennials, shrubs, trees, bulbs and native wetland plants.
The large vegetable plot was raised using sleepers, and over 30 cubic metres of well-rotted manure were barrowed in to give the client the planting space of his dreams.
4th Dimension
Upon completion of this garden design project, the clients invited Ian, the team and their families to an open garden party on a Saturday afternoon. Tea, sandwiches and fresh scones were served to celebrate the finished project. They had been so impressed with the work, they wanted the team, and especially the younger landscapers, to show their loved ones first-hand what they had achieved.
This was Ian’s first large-scale solo project as 4D Garden Design and was a huge moment of pride for him to be able to showcase this beautiful creation.
