The Brief

This garden represented more than the usual challenge, it was on many different levels, with average access, some retaining walls showing cracks and the bottom half of the garden had been left untended for some time and was completely overgrown with brambles. The apple tree was a splendid sculptural specimen, so we were keen to keep this.

The Solution

The garden was divided into four areas over five different levels, simplifying it from what had been done previously and enlarging some areas to make them more useable. The patio, lawn and shed all became the main part of the garden with the apple tree as a focal point which is lit at night. The garden then drops down to an herb garden at the side and then drops again to a gravel garden with further seating and a waterfall. The bottom level is a woodland walk as this is under the shade of a mature sycamore tree. A major retaining wall to the left of the garden was replaced and increased in height to create a fifth level, essentially a tall, raised bed making maintenance a little easier from the steep slope that had been there previously. All the garden is now accessible with slight changes of character as you move around the space to create more enjoyment. 

Main contractor: Pinnington Landscapes

• At Anthea Harrison Garden Design, we offer contemporary garden design in Essex, along with other garden design styles in the county, as well as in North London and Hertfordshire. Click here and fill in the online form or call us today on 01279 647305 to learn more.