Keeping it Simple and Elegant
Projects often come with existing elements. Here it was a large area of decking. This partly set the proportioning for the rest of the garden and was a good reminder to keep it relatively simple. The balance between creative and not too fussy is the pre-occupation of any good designer.
A water feature was included in the brief and as the design developed it was clear that this could not take centre stage.
A large elegant ‘Poppy Bowl’ by Urbis provided plenty of presence and sophistication without being over-insistent for attention. Something showier would have unbalanced the nature of the design as a whole. A feed from the irrigation system allows this to be topped up easily when needed.
We are delighted with the garden, which has exceeded our expectations. From the initial contact through design selection to installation and completion, Barry clearly explained the design process, and excelled when it came to the planting.
With summers becoming quite hot in the UK, shade was another requirement of the brief. A Harrod Horticulture ‘Modern Pergola with Canopy’ was carefully made to fit the space and arranged at exactly the right spot on the decking.
There was a considerable level change (let’s call it a fall!) on the far side of the decking, Harrod Horticultural containers, colour matched with pergola and poppy bowl, were set against this edge, effectively creating a safety rail.
With some fantastic semi-mature pleached Hornbeams this area become beautifully enclosed and surrounded by planting. Different shades of green and blue form the planting, creating a restful area to be in.
Rendered and painted raised beds on either side of the path and lawn allow a good area for planting. A few additional trees which will mature at a larger size give more privacy but still plenty of sunshine.
Beyond the Yew hedge, put in semi-mature, is the ‘secret garden.’ The main garden has become smaller but, because of the interesting yet uncomplicated design, it actually looks bigger! In the ‘secret garden,’ the client’s favourite climbing rose is gradually making its way up the Harrod Horticultural Moon Gate Arch, here employed as contemporary Arbor for a seat.
