Back garden transformation in Bourne

Project Brief:

This garden belongs to a couple in Bourne who had decided that the time had come to convert the space from a cricket practice area to a more sophisticated garden for resting and entertaining in.

The clients wanted to have the space broken down into different areas for different purposes. They were keen to maintain some lawn but not for it to dominate the area. There was no existing planting; adding in borders with shrubs, perennials and trees to create more interest was key. They asked that Stuart include a water feature within the design and to allow for a couple of places where sculptures would be placed. A shed, garden lighting and an irrigation system were also on the wish-list.

This is a garden we still see on a regular basis. The borders have filled out and there have been some changes to the planting as the clients have become more confident in make decisions about what they do and don’t like.

Elements of the Project:

• A garden design by Stuart, drawn by hand and to scale
• Porcelain paving was put down along the side passage, around the back of the house and to create an outdoor dining area
• Installation of a decked area in composite boards for two sun loungers
• Construction of a sunken seating area for a fire pit, laid with stone setts. On this was built a bespoke circular chunky oak bench
• Erection of a wooden gazebo for shade on a sunny day or shelter on a wet one
• Installation of a bespoke timber pergola over the dining area
• Construction of a custom-built shed in the side passage for storing tools
• Five pleached Photinia trees were planted to give some privacy against the south side fence
• Three raised beds were constructed to sit in front of the Photinias, as well as one for growing salad in the side passage
• Creation of two lawn areas defined with a hard mowing edge. Fresh turf was put down on these
• Yew hedging was planted to define areas
• A planting scheme by Stuart to fill the newly created borders.
• Planting up of all new borders and raised beds
• A water feature supplied by the clients was installed
• Installation of an irrigation system to cover different areas of planting
• Lighting was installed around the garden in conjunction with a local electrician.