A makeover was long overdue for this simple but elegant rear garden in the Mapesbury Conservation Area of North West London. The well used rear deck, which had been host to hundreds of family gatherings and parties, had all but collapsed and was desperately in need of replacement, whilst the borders and beds had become neglected and overgrown.

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Keen to maximise their outdoor entertaining space whilst giving the illusion of a larger garden, the owners, a botanist and a doctor, wanted to retain as much of the lush, existing planting as possible. New pollinator friendly specimens were added for colour and to complement what was currently there. A large collection of pots were also repurposed and planted up with a mixture of perennials and herbs for use in the kitchen.

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A new, stylish terrace was constructed from composite wood decking and porcelain to accommodate their existing dining table and matching bistro set, along with an additional area for informal seating. The split-level entertaining area spans the width of the garden, making the space look larger, and the large drop down from the house to the garden easier to navigate.

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An elegant, sweeping lawn adjoins the new terrace, providing adequate space for general relaxation whilst drawing the eye to the end of the garden where a dark grey fence and new shed also help to give the illusion of a longer garden.

 

Irrigation and garden lighting were also incorporated so that this busy family can relax and enjoy their garden both day and night.

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Photography by: Anna Omiotek-Tott