London Garden Design, Stanmore
Brief
This long, thin garden is in need of a complete overhaul. The clients have developed their interior to cope with their increasing needs as a small family, and now need to realise the potential of their outdoor space. They would like to include a garden office and require ample space for their very active toddler. Hey have quite a low budget.
Solution
The design divides the garden into distinct zones. Directly adjoining the back of the house will be a patio constructed from a combination of Indian sandstone slabs, sunken railway sleepers, creeping thyme and a sedum mix to fill. The multiple textures in this flooring will give a high degree of interest while providing maximum usable surface area. The existing Acer palmatum will remain and help frame the entrance to the next section of the garden.
The divide of the space is accentuated by a timber screen with several apertures of varying sizes, some of which will be filled with a variety of decorative aggregate, with others left unfilled to view beyond. Directly behind this screen is a timber framed tunnel clad in stainless steel mesh, under which a decking walkway will lead the user through the space. A garden office will take pride of place to the right, with a small decked patio ideally placed for a cafe style table and chairs.
A stainless steel sphere water feature nestled in the bed between the decking and the main patio will provide a stylish focal point. The existing storage chest will be relocated alongside a hoggin (self-binding aggregate) path that zigzags its way up the garden, through three small lawns. The first lawn will be laid on the diagonal and will be enclosed by a timber frame to allow the clients to hang a swing or install fabric to transform it into a den. The second and third lawns will benefit from a mesh screen on a timber frame to add interest and screening to the area.
A railway sleeper raised bed in the right hand corner of the garden will allow the opportunity for a small bit of vegetable garden, while a small area of decking to the left will offer additional space for relaxation and socialising. A small garden shed in the far left corner of the space will provide additional storage.
