SMALL GARDEN
We were delighted to receive the brief for this idyllic property set in the heart of the Cotswolds. Although neglected and undeveloped it had an instant atmosphere as soon as we walked through the garden gate. Not many gardens have a natural stream running right through the middle of the plot and to find a project with one was a rare find indeed for a design practice.
The clients acquired the garden as weekend retreat for relaxing and entertaining, to enjoy this beautiful little Cotswolds gem for themselves and friends.
Naturally we needed to maximise this beautiful feature and place it at the heart of the design, so we set about imagining how the stream could be restored and even how the stream might warrant being tweaked in shape and depth to form pools and falls.
After experimenting with the stream redesign the plan fell into place and we then plotted in vantage points i.e., sitting areas, bridges and terraces etc to enjoy these enhanced features. The site had an inherent natural slope that required extensive terracing using the local golden sandstone for dry stone walls, these stone walls repeat throughout the project and visually tie the garden and house together.
We worked with existing features to make an already generous budget deliver as much as possible for our clients without compromising on the quality of materials and aesthetics. A bespoke summerhouse now perches over the garden, taking in views of several secluded sitting areas. As the night closes in outdoor dining can be enjoyed from a natural stone terrace whilst the sound of the widened and adapted natural stream completes the perfect atmosphere.
After dinner an outdoor ‘Kadai’ wood fire bowl sets the scene acting as a stunning backdrop to the carefully chosen planting palette – a planting scheme that is abundant, yet the proportion of hard and soft landscaping is perfectly balanced resulting in a visually rich garden that feels very much at one with the countryside location and the vernacular architecture.
John listened to what we wanted a came up with a beautiful design resulting in a fantastic garden which our friends say is the equal of any garden they have seen at Chelsea Flower Show.
