This wonderful, family farmhouse had a large area of blank lawn as a consequence of removing an old dilapidated glasshouse and surrounding hard landscaping. The client's brief was to create colour and interest in the way of informal borders and beds that brought together the house and garden in a more harmonious way and at the same time leave plenty of space for the children and dogs to run around. This involved linking a seating area in the sunniest area of the garden to the house to give the space proportion and balance. 

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The main challenge with this garden was that the soil was heavy clay and very poorly drained. Drainage therefore had to be installed, along with good quality topsoil in the borders, and plants were carefully chosen for their tolerance to damp, heavy conditions where necessary using gravel under the planting.

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Extensive borders were created, with relaxed planting befitting a country house and a strong emphasis was placed on giving colour and interest throughout the seasons. Together with woodland and shady areas, a large central island bed with grasses and perennials and, to give height, three large rose arches over the pathway and several select trees, brought the garden together as a whole.

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The clients were amazed at how many bees and insects now visit the garden. As soon as they walked in through the gate they found themselves in a garden alive with the buzzing and fluttering of happy insects!