Inspiration for Garden Design: Tristram Hillier ‘Variation on the form of an Anchor’

Tristam Hillier

1905-1983

Variation on the form of an anchor

Inspiration for Garden Design needs seeking out and this concept would suit a modern courtyard garden design. Bold in its appearance, it adds depth to the space by breaking it up into smaller sections with a defined purpose for each space.

Directly outside the backdoor is an ellipse of hardwood decking, large enough for a dining table and chairs. Arcing along one side of the deck is a poured concrete wall with oval cut-outs that echo the form in the painting and allow views of a deep bed beyond planted with a variety of herbaceous border.

Steeping stones lead from this area to a smaller elliptical deck, also framed by a similar, shorter feature wall. The next section of the space would be laid with a circular pebble mosaic rug, accentuated by a curved concrete bench which widens and blends into a large bespoke day bed constructed from hardwood decking with bespoke outdoor cushions. This bench would be partially backed by a further feature wall, the alcoves of which could house various ornaments and pots.

More stepping stones lead to the final section of the garden. Also decked, it houses a hot tub for the final added luxurious element. In this area two designer sun loungers offer not only somewhere to sit, but also a sculptural element.