Traditional Garden Design in Essex

Brief

The garden is extremely long, however the client only wishes to focus on the main area from the house to the existing shed
They are keen to retain some of the existing trees and shrubs as they offer privacy to the neighbouring properties
They would like a separate dining of seating area towards the rear of the space to make the most of the afternoon/evening sun
The client would like to retain some lawn but are happy to reduce the size
The area directly outside the patio doors could be improved with a focal point or additional planting
The area to the left hand side of the house is not used much

Solution

The new layout will feature sinuous curves, arcs and circles to create an elegant and fluid feeling space. Long, winding pathways laid with resin fixed gravel will snake down each side of the garden, creating a large curvaceous loop around the space. Along the left-hand path, a deep planting bed creates a focal point directly outside the patio doors. About a third of the way down this path a summer house is positioned to offer a winter sanctuary and a comfortable retreat during hotter days. The path will lead to the main seating area in front of the existing shed, which will comprise a large circular patio laid with porcelain paving in a random pattern, spacious enough to accommodate outdoor sofas and a fire pit.

As the client does a lot of entertaining, two smaller circular patios to the right of the space will include an illuminated bar partially covered with an arced pergola, plus space for a table and chairs for alfresco dining. The curved gravel path will continue back down the space to terminate in the patio adjoining the house. Several decorative iron arches installed over the path will add height and interest to the space.

The planting scheme will be low maintenance, focusing on Evergreen shrubs and leaves with plenty of colour and texture. Grasses and long flowering herbaceous perennials will also be interspersed amongst the beds and borders.

Contact Earth Designs to discuss your own traditional garden makeover, or browse our website to see more examples by our garden designer in Essex.