Sophisticated Front Garden for Entertaining

Client:

Residential Front Garden, Berkhamsted

The brief from these clients was to create a sophisticated front garden making use of the unused space at the front of the house which is set a long way back in the plot. It is also on a steep slope so there were some complex levels to navigate.

The sloping site allowed us to create several terraces - one that catches the morning sun creating a beautiful spot for a morning coffee - one that is slightly sunken to create a feeling of privacy where a firepit and comfortable seating provides a space for enjoying summer evenings - and one that is completely hidden from the road, tucked away behind the garage, the 'secret terrace'.

Planting is abundant and varied to ensure there is interest throughout the year. Yew balls create structure throughout the winter months and a yew hedge creates privacy from the road when sitting on the upper terrace; a purple and white planting scheme provides plenty of colour from Spring through to late Autumn and colourful tulips and alliums provide Spring interest before the perennials really get going.

Arrival View

A substantial raised planting bed with a beautiful Amelanchier and abundant planting helps to soften the view of the house and creates privacy in the front garden

Welcoming Entrance

The pathway up to the front door leads you through raised planting beds. A metal sculpture on the corner, lit up at night, creates a focal point

Hidden terraces

Terraces either side of the central pathway are hidden from view until you reach the upper level

Glimpses of hidden terraces

A change of material from limestone paving to dark grey clay pavers lead you to the hidden terraces. Both materials provide a contrast to the brick walls and brick of the house

Firepit Terrace

A beautiful spot for enjoying evenings outside around the firepit, in a secluded space hidden from the road

Purple and White Planting Scheme

Hydrangea Limelight, Geranium Rozanne, Gaura Whirling Butterflies, Pennisetum Karley Rose and Salvia Caradonna are key plants in this scheme, providing interest throughout the Spring to Autumn months

Pathway drawing you up through the garden

This provides a sense of the overall space with a central pathway stepping up gently through raised planting beds. Amelanchiers and Acers provide structure, surrounded by abundant planting