Synopsis
Nick and Douglas from The Distinctive Gardener have created two terraces, the top terrace running the width of the garden and a second long terrace running down the righthand boundary. To the other side is a lawn, large enough for ball games and play for the family's two children.
The top terrace is the main seating area, with chairs and sofas, as well as an outdoor wood burning stove. The family just love being outside and spend many nights (both summer and winter) with the children enjoying the considerable warmth the stove produces.
As well as creating a step up to this terrace, they also used small Dutch pavers to give the terrace a different, rustic feel within, what is essentially, a contemporary design.
The rear border has a lush feel, with exotic-looking tree ferns, evergreen grasses and Phormiums. There are also pops of seasonal colour, with bulbs in the spring, Astrantias through the summer, and Ligularia in the autumn.
At the centre of the dining terrace is this impressive table and bench set that can easily seat 12. With the addition of the integrated lighting system, which is operated from an app on the client's phone, the dining terrace is simply magical at night.
The planting in this garden had to be able to withstand the kicking of footballs and the lively duo of Bella and Ivy, the family's much-loved cat and dog. So, robust flowering shrubs were used in the borders around the lawn, including Hydrangeas and Sambucus for structure, and evergreen ferns for ground cover. Around the terraces, a more delicate feel was created, using evergreen grasses Verbena and Santolina.
It is always good when sensory elements are added to a garden design. Stepping stones made from the Dutch pavers leading from the terrace to the lawn are planted in between with Thyme, which emits a wonderful aroma when walked upon. The sound of running water from large zinc water feature on the dining terrace also adds to this garden's relaxing vibe.
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