Take this project in Harrogate for instance.
Claire and John have a beautiful stone built house that whilst of new construction, benefits from the presence and character of similar period properties. It also enjoys a beautiful stone wall that encloses the garden plus expansive views of open countryside.
But then they added a very cool contemporary glass extension so that the garden could be enjoyed from the inside as well as out.
So when they commissioned us to create the design, we had to marry the lovely existing period charm, with the sleek glass structure – finding a balance between the classic formal garden and the strong geometric lines of the modern.
Claire and John gave us a long list of things they wanted to incorporate including an area for herbs, lots of lovely seating areas so they could follow the sun’s path throughout the day, and lighting so that they could enjoy the garden in the evening.
First, we softened the front elevation of the house incorporating classic Lavender that not only gives off a beautiful scent, but provides a beautiful, striking and soft entrance to their home. We married this by using lavender in some of the beds opposite too
One of the challenges we love in gardens, is levels. Not many gardens have a flat open expanse and to be honest, we think it’s much more visually interesting if there are some different levels in the garden to provide a bit of variety and surprise. Claire and John wanted a smooth, continuous access between the new glass structure and the garden, and by keeping the stone paving clear and uncluttered, we created an good expanse of patio and retained the strong visual lines and contemporary design look they were after whilst dropping down into separate areas of the garden so as to create the feeling of exploration.
Being open to the countryside, also means that occasionally, the wind doth blow! So we replaced the existing fence with hedging to soften the boundary and visually connect the garden with the rolling hills of the North Yorkshire countryside beyond, and also very handily, creates a more effective windbreak.
Planting wise, there is a mix of herbaceous and evergreens, some beautiful silver birch to pick up on those clean lines of the glass extension, and we threw in quite a few different beneficial plants for wildlife too.
We absolutely love it! What do you think?
