Behind a terrace house…
Thursday, May 13th, 2010
The main design aim here was to disguise the rectangular shape of the plot and provide a low-maintenance setting for some strong, colourful planting. It was also important to connect the garden to the wooded area behind the rear fence, thus ‘borrowing’ the landscape beyond. Many of the existing plants were of high quality and these were incorporated into the plan. The physical structure of the garden, however, was poor: most of the boundaries had to be rebuilt and the hard surfaces were not in good condition. The new fences have been planted with a range of climbers which, in time, will cover them.
The uneven stone patio was taken up, relaid on a sound base and edged with dark brick, creating a generous area for relaxing and entertaining. Carefully matched new stone was introduced to extend the paving down the side of the kitchen extension (see below). If this often neglected area is well planted and properly integrated into the garden in this way the effect can be dramatic: the garden feels larger and more much under control!
