the project

This was a large detached house in Pangbourne, Berkshire, loved by the owners but with an uninspiring 1980s garden, which was dull and unwelcoming. The concrete paved terrace was too small, the oak pergola was collapsing and planting was overgrown. Though the garden was on a south facing slope it felt dark and repressive, with nothing to look at.

The new garden design included a much-enlarged terrace laid with beautiful limestone paving matching the interior stone, with generous steps down to the lawn. Raised beds were built in the same brick as the house, one incorporating a spherical water feature and a contemporary aluminium pergola was designed to create shade, whilst still letting light into the house.

The shady, lower garden was transformed with a seating area to escape the heat of the upper terrace and a sculpture which is lit at night. The summerhouse was renovated into a play room for the grandchildren.

Words by Andrea Newill, Designer