Contemporary and Striking

With a number of constraints on the layout which needed to be maintained, such as the split level, rear access, and the wall and steps, the client wanted to bring style and character to what had formally been a bland space that felt like a corridor.

An important aspect of the brief was to create a space full of flowers and greenery that could be a sanctuary away from the world, and better connect the house with the garden.

The heart of the design concept was to maintain the maximum usable space, whilst still creating an intimate and stylish garden.

With a simple but elegant layout, the space was enhanced with a palette of rich materials, and architectural elements, to bring character, texture and visual interest.

Working with three key materials - slate, corten steel and hardwood decking - we visually seperated the lower area with a rich and striking hardwood deck, which was built to create a level threshold with the internal floor height.

The dark slate paving in the top area makes a striking contrast with the decking, andgive it a distinct character, with the arch acting as the transition point between the two.

The introduction of the corten steel water bowl, screen and bug hotel, elevates the upper area from simply being a patio with planting, to a space that invites the viewer in to explore them in detail, as well as providing winter structure when the planting dies back The rich tones of the corten steel contrast wonderfully with the dark slate, and are further complemented by the matching painted fence.

The planting, is full, vibrant and relaxed, and over time will allow the corten elements to “nest” within it, and soften them slightly.