Garden Design Project in Cheadle Hulme

The site conditions first visit

Here is an example of another challenge faced as part of this garden design project. As you will see from the before pictures the rear garden area is an awkward shape going to a point in the corner of the plot.  The problem with is the eye is constantly drawn to the corner missing the rest of the space therefore leading to a very one dimensional experience in the space.

Client requirements

Having spent many summers in the Camargue in the South of France the clients wanted this reflected in a Mediterranean style garden. As part of this brief they wanted the space to become an aesthetic backdrop from and an extension to a set of wrap around bi-fold doors they were having fitted. 

Design solutions

I designed a large deck area with an extended timber deck path way to continue around the side of the house. This allowed a connection with the bi-fold to side and a connection to a kids play center.
I also deigned planting pockets in the decked area to both soften and bring planting closer to the living space. Given the small size of the garden the lawn was removed and replaced with a gravel garden which was inter-planted with useful herbs including Lemon Balm, Sage, Oregano’s and Thyme’s, whilst further adding to the Mediterranean feel of the garden. A raised bed was included to far boundary to provide ease of maintenance but also doubled as seating in the space. This also allowed the sharp corner to the garden to be squared off and planted with bamboo providing year round interest whilst also maintaining privacy and movement in the garden.

Client Testimonial

“We are both so totally thrilled with the full realisation of the garden you designed. It was an awkward space which together with our desire for something redolent of the Camargue in rainy Manchester was always going to be something of a challenge! However that is exactly what you have achieved. It is only now, one year on, that we can fully appreciate your skill, not only with the landscaping but particularly with the planting. Each plant whether chosen for it’s architectural properties or it’s colour or fragrance works perfectly to create an atmosphere which is distinctly Mediterranean whilst hardy enough to tolerate our weather. It is practical for our young family as well as providing us with a room outdoors for more grown-up entertaining. We could not have asked for anything more.”