A complete redesign, which involved transforming a space comprised entirely of turf into multiple ‘rooms’ for the clients to enjoy at various points of the day. Clay pavers complementing the house exterior were used for the paths, and self-binding gravel for the central and rear seating areas. Each of the three ‘rooms’ are surrounded by planting.

Forest-like planting, including ferns, a rowan, multi-stem birch and crab apple, envelopes the rear seating area, giving the sense of a ‘forest edge’, which includes edimentals such as redcurrants, blackcurrants, alpine strawberries and rhubarb, all selected to attract nature.

The sunnier aspects of the garden reference the clients’ native New Zealand, with Libertia chilensis, honey spurge and Acaena microphylla all recurring throughout the space. Grasses and shrubs are repeated too, for evergreen interest and to tie the scheme together. The central dining area includes a pergola over which Clematis and vines will grow.

Brick pavers by Chelmer Vallery at London Stone and gravel from Breedon Special Aggregates.