Sophisticated, secret and symmetrical
Photographed early evening in its first May with abundant Alliums and four years later on a sunny June morning, when the ‘Cornus walk’ is blooming, this multi -level, garden was created to complement the renovation of a family home in Highgate. The owners wanted direct access to the swimming pool, in the basement, a loggia for entertaining, a vivarium for their feisty African tortoise, a hidden trampoline and plenty of lawn for their boys. Aesthetically symmetry was a must along with classic, semi traditional formality and a colour palette restricted to white and green with touches of blue.
A bowed courtyard was sunk to create access to the pool. A pair of curved Italianate style staircases wrap a lead water feature to enhance the symmetry. Railings echo those of the central internal staircase and soft greys and buffs of the hard landscaping reflect the interior décor. Evergreen Quercus ilex flank the main steps on the central axis.Terracing and contemporary box parterres link the spaces and soften the ascent. A romantic path flanked with Cornus offers a focal view from the Orangery with secret paths and quiet seating.
APL Winner large residential garden 2017
Pool courtyard and loggia designed in conjunction with Charlton Brown Architects.
Photograhy: Matthew Gilbert