A Vision of Natural Sanctuary
Our journey with this client began with a simple but powerful brief: to breathe life and tranquility into a neglected paddock area to the rear of the property. The cornerstone of the design is a newly installed, natural-style pool, and our task was to craft a sophisticated planting scheme that would blur the lines between garden and wilderness. This project, which began as a consultancy, quickly evolved into a full scale planting design, with Elaine guiding the client from concept to completion. He chose to work with us because of the quality and size of plants we stock (mature plants for instant impact) and our specialist knowledge.
Tranquillity and Privacy
The design features lush, layered planting that creates a soft, natural feel around the hard landscaping. Around the pool edge and in the background, we mixed ornamental grasses, perennial flowers such as Erigeron Karvinskianus (Mexican Fleabane) and low evergreen shrubs (such as Rosa ‘Kent’) to offer texture, scent and colour. These are some of the key plants we used:
- Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender)
- Libertia grandiflora (Herbaceous perennial)
- Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ (Ornamental grass)
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
- Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’
- Verbena bonariensis (Herbaceous perennial)
The dense surrounding foliage and mature trees create a secluded, intimate atmosphere. The relaxed planting style makes the space feel like a hidden sanctuary. The feature Pinus sylvestris (Scots Pine) creates a sense of somewhere more exotic than West Berkshire; Greece, Sweden or California perhaps.
Around the pool edge and in the background the low shrubs such as Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ and Choisya ternata (Mexican orange blossom) , offer texture and colour contrast. This planting is very much prairie style, inspired by the Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf.
The property benefits from many existing mature trees along the border which helped provide a sense of seclusion. Our client asked for a garden that could provide, so we planted several fruit espaliers (Olives and Crab Apple) along the fence line as well as Rosemary (to be used as as cooking herb) and Lavender to add summer fragrance and attract pollinators.
Design Elements
The bespoke Corten steel and cedar bench made by Creative Landscape Ltd was positioned with thoughtful intention, to create an engaging and comfortable focal point that encourages relaxation and appreciation of the landscape as a whole with a direct view across the garden.
Beyond the pool, the Swedish wood-burning hot tub is nestled amongst herbaceous perennials and ornamental trees. The planting scheme in this part of the garden deliberately uses late flowering perennials that add colour well into autumn. We used Verbena Bonariensis and Rudbeckia.
Overall Atmosphere
The garden is bathed in bright sunlight, highlighting the deep green of the pool water and the vibrancy of the foliage. It conveys a strong sense of tranquillity, modern design balanced with natural beauty and a luxurious outdoor living space. The mix of soft planting and natural materials adds to the feeling of comfort and well-being.
Feeling inspired?
If you would like to start the first step of your journey with us then get in touch to book our consultancy service.
For just £75*, our experienced horticulturalists will provide tailored guidance to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re interested in fast-growing solutions for quick impact, seeking the enduring beauty of evergreen plants or looking to add colour and fragrance, we can offer expert advice.
**£75 fee applies if you live within a 15-mile radius of our office. Additional fees apply outside this area. All costs include VAT.