New build garden
This new-build house had a nicely proportioned plot, neat fences and a small lawn. However, the clients felt that they didn't want a lawn in their new house as they didn't think they would use it and didn't want to mow it. Flowerbeds around the edges of the lawn were also a bit dull and the view from the bifold doors was not inspiring. The client's desk also directly looked out onto the garden and she wanted a view that would be lovely all year round.
The answer was to break up the space into smaller planting pockets and mix materials to that would work with the existing patio, which was in good condition and therefore could be kept. Porcelain planks and gravel were used to increase the sense of width across the garden and to add interest to the space. Access to the end of the garden was retained and also planting zones are manageable sized, making gardening easy.
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Corten steel pots were used at the back of the garden to raise up small trees, covering the fences and creating layers in the garden, with low planting towards the house and high planting at the rear. The back of the garden was almost always shaded, so plants were chosen specifically that can thrive in shady areas, using more colour and scent closer to the house.
A narrow planting rill separates the two materials and brings planting right up to the patio.
Corten pots were also repeated closer to the house, filling the space next to the house and improving the view from the window