A traditional echo for modern family living, twisted to celebrate the South Downs
Photographed soon after planting, the garden was designed to complement a beautiful 17th Century house, unite out buildings, settle in its rural environs and focus on the ever-changing South Downs. The owners wanted space for dining, relaxing, partying, playing for their family and friends. Linear geometry was preferred and low maintenance planting a must.
The original garden was divided into impractical, wasted spaces, challenging, irrational levels and the view from the house and terrace was focussed on the back of the converted barn rather than the glory of the downs.
The design twists the geometry to open the view from the house and within the garden. Pathways and steps unite buildings and all the spaces within the garden to create a circuitous journey and easy access. Existing reclaimed York Stone was re-laid and supplemented and teamed with self-binding gravel. Stone walling was redirected and supplemented to rationalise levels. The pool surrounding was lowered, enlarged and decked in comfortable, eco-friendly Kebony for fun and chilling. Planting was kept low to the back of the house to open and frame the view using conifer mounds and multi-stem standards – (lots of indigenous Yew and Juniper) to create a rolling, evergreen framework with weaving Pittosporum, lavender, roses, Teucrium and perennials. Raised blossom trees are softly underplanted by the lawn and wild flower meadow wedges are carved into the levelled grass to retain the geometry. The centrepiece is a simple metal rill, wrapped in thyme and Teucrium to reflect the changing sky and point to the Downs.
Photographs: Fred Yardley for the Garden Builders
