This country garden takes its cues from the chunky proportions and straight lines of the contemporary barn-style house. Naturalistic planting brings softness, and integrates the property into the surrounding farmland.
Originally the newly-built house sat monolithically on the land.
Thanks to The Country House Dept for the use of their photo.
In order to integrate the house into the landscape, the design continues the straight lines and strong proportions of the house outwards into the garden. Paving, beds and gravel paths align with walls and doors, tying house and garden together. This photo was taken in December 2024, just after we finished the construction and planting.
Eighteen months later the planting is flourishing. Creeping thyme creates a fragrant carpet that softens the stepping stones, while grasses nestle amongst long-flowering swathes of draught-tolerant gaura, catmint, phlomis and verbena.
The thyme and stepping stone path leads to a lounging area that’s perfectly situated to catch the evening sun and enjoy the countryside views.
The dining area is generously sized and conveniently located next to the kitchen. Its materials, positioning and proportions give it a strong sense of connection to the fabric of the house.
See-through planting makes the dining area feel cosy and room-like, without interrupting the views.
From inside the house, the garden provides a harmonious foreground to the far-reaching views beyond.
