The owners of this large plot wanted to create a cottage-garden effect, in keeping with the architecture of the surrounding area, whilst taking into consideration the practical requirements of a growing family.

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Being keen gardeners, they wanted an area to grow their own vegetables, adequate space for children to play, as well as room for entertaining and relaxing outdoors.

 

In response to the brief, the garden was divided into zones, with a comfortable sized, sandstone patio built out from the kitchen. Adjoining the patio, a sweeping, central lawn was shaped to lead the eye towards the far end of the plot and the entrance to the hidden kitchen-garden.

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Situated in a conservation area, the property benefited from mature privet and yew hedging to all sides. Against this green backdrop, curved borders where planted up with a mix of low maintenance flowering shrubs and reliable perennials to create the impression of an old-fashioned cottage garden. Second-hand furniture was chosen to compliment the overall look.  

 

As the garden was North-East facing, a further small patio was incorporated to catch the sun in the middle of the day. Adjoining this small patio, and hidden from view of the house by a mature Bramley apple tree, a new shed was positioned to store bikes and tools. 

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Concealed from view of the main garden and house, the kitchen garden was designed with four main planting areas positioned around a circular lawn, with space for compost bins and a children's play area. Shingle paths provided access to the beds, whilst a small seating area afforded a welcome place to rest and catch the sunset at the end of the day.

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Later on, as the children grew older, the garden was further adapted to suit the family's changing needs. The productive area was reduced in size, and the main lawn extended to join the smaller circular lawn at the rear.