This project was a collaborative undertaking between myself and Kathryn Hibberd of 12Garden Design. Kathryn undertook the hard landcaping design while I undertook the plant design. Collaboration and joint site meetings ensured the coherence between the two phases and implementation of the design.

Different garden areas were woven into the design including the main terrace, a secondary breakfast area, a summer house and a shady retreat.

The overall inspiration for the planting was derived from the client’s obvious enjoyment and interest for plants and the soft planting style was been chosen to reflect and embrace the rural setting surrounding the village in which the garden was situated.  Many of the plants, including Salvias, Sarcococca, Nepeta and Origanum were also selected to attract foraging insects and bees bringing life from the countryside into the garden.

Overall structure provides a good framework for soft and gentle planting within it. A selection of trees, shrubs, bulbs, ephemerals, perennials and biennials will ensure that there is continual interest in terms of foliage, texture, fragrance and colour through the year. Colour inspiration was drawn from the colour of the house stone and red brick window and door surrounds. The colours also reflected the client’s preference for apricots, mauves and soft yellows. Many of the plants are repeated through the borders to create a sense of continuity and rythmn. In addition, plants were chosen to evoke a different sense of atmosphere in each area adding to the interest and depth of the garden.