Contemporary Curves in a Family Garden
An elegant family garden in Oxfordshire, built around a redesigned deck platform.
The family had few exacting requirements, beyond somewhere to grow herbs, and a desire to use the garden as additional living space. Creating separate zones became something of a design direction when it became clear that the teenage children wanted areas where they could retreat with friends.
The main difficulties on site were an unattractive existing deck platform, which had to be retained to access the conservatory– though it was reshaped and the boards were replaced; and privacy issues from a nearby footpath. The existing garden lacked any sense of cohesion, and none of the areas worked in terms of useful outdoor space.
Curving pleached hedges helped create an instant sense of seclusion and maturity, as did a small grove of birch trees. Bespoke metal troughs filled with water reflect the changing clouds in the sky, adding to the tranquil feel, which is further enhanced with a soft, woodland planting scheme.
A custom designed, hand built timber ‘chill-out zone’ makes a secluded retreat; and a small terrace at the far end of the garden is the perfect spot to catch the last of the sun.
