The finished scheme has produced a wonderfully cosy, yet spacious, sun dappled outside space. The garden is divided into three main areas with a network of connecting paths all enveloped by a generous depth of attractive and functional shrub and herbaceous planting. A combination of pretty climbers and strong architectural shrubs around the house soften the aspect from the seating areas. The choice and positioning of trees entices the user to explore the garden as well as providing a sense of calm seclusion.
The largest space is the dining area which includes a table and seating for six, yet is big enough for a larger number of guests, if required, as well as any dining equipment the clients may want to introduce. Throughout the design process for any landscape or garden I place a central consideration to the effect of sun and shade and the aspect of the space. I wanted the dining area to be perfectly positioned to catch the evening sun, as this is the time of day when the clients are more likely to be eating outside or entertaining.
The second area, I intended to be a smaller, cosier space for relaxing Sunday mornings or more intimate evening occasions. I decided to use the natural slope towards the eastern corner of the garden and create a small raised terrace. A change in level can add interest to a garden and I wanted to use the increase in height to catch the morning and evening sun.
For any garden I think it is important to have a space which can provide a cool calm haven from the hot summer sun. The third area of the garden is small and sheltered with a simple bench and small water feature. This intimate space is enclosed by four evergreen trees and the surface is softened with a warm golden gravel. The quiet trickle of the water feature and the cool dark shade of the trees add to the feeling of calm and tranquility in the space.
For all the paved areas I used a soft, buff coloured sandstone from a local Buckinghamshire quarry with warm hints of pink and beige that would harmonise with the natural reddish brick of the house while lightening and calming the visual impact of the hardscape. The antique red of the brick used for the walls and step risers add to the effect.
The scheme is successful because it meets the clients’ brief while perfectly harmonising with the house and surrounding environment. I believe the key to good design is simplicity and this garden perfectly demonstrates how simple and strong design can be so effective in achieving a functional yet appealing outside space.