Our insight
The house and garden are in a lovely setting, but the garden felt very open and quite exposed to the elements; there was also a sense of being overlooked by a neighbouring property. A sense of sanctuary and privacy was required around the house whilst maintaining a visual connection with the surrounding countryside. Views within the garden needed to be created and framed to give a sense of scale.
The transformation
The garden design is underpinned by a strong rectilinear geometry, to connect the house to the garden and create attractive, separate spaces. Trees and clipped hedges were used to strengthen the geometry before the areas were over-layered with softer, more naturalistic planting. Further hedging, trees and grasses also provide screening from the property next door. A large area was given over to a wildflower meadow. Local native calcareous species were used to increase the garden’s biodiversity. Importantly, the meadow provides a further strong connection to the garden’s countryside.
Mown paths through the meadow area provide a sense of control and an invitation to explore further. An extra contemporary touch was added by using bespoke modern sculpture, designed by James Scott. This leads the eye and frames wonderful views across the Chilterns.
Overall, the result is a garden which is well-loved and in constant use by its owners. National recognition for the garden’s design concept was achieved in 2018 when it was shortlisted for an SGD Award. In addition, the exceptionally high standard of skill and craftmanship on display was recognised by BALI with a national landscaping award.
Our garden looks stunning in every season – whether it be the swaying grasses with crystals of frost, the early colours which bring the anticipation of spring, the magnificent blooms of summer and the flowers that just keep on flowering while leaves are turning crimson and rusty in the autumn. James really understood what we were looking for in a garden – my favourite spots being the kitchen and vegetable gardens, the “island” for the perfect sun-downer and the terrace where we eat (the produce from our garden) looking out over the meadow. It is a haven not only for us – but also for a multitude of bees, insects and butterflies. You can’t help but smile and feel happy wherever you are in the garden. When we set out on the journey we never anticipated having an award winning garden – but it is a credit to James and his team and we are simply the lucky ones who reap the benefit of it.
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