Our garden is an idyllic urban retreat, creating a haven for the city dweller. It’s an inner circle of peace that is constantly changing.

The efficient use of space makes the most of the vertical dimension, and the clever design provides privacy despite the garden being overlooked.

Elements of the garden are in place to take the client away from the business of city life, secluding them into their own back garden paradise. The trickling of the water down the chains and the gentle rustling of the bamboo helps to block out the noise of the surrounding city.

How will you harvest water?

The repetition of circular shapes allude to the cycle we have created within the water saving element of the garden.

During periods of rain, the louvered roof of the pergola is transformed into the starting point of the water’s journey. From here, it flows down to the pond, and is then circulated through every element of the garden, enriching each one as it goes. It feeds a bountiful edible wall before eventually returning to the central pond, which acts as the main reservoir for the garden.

What elements in the garden are sustainable?

We are using recycled wooden pallets, cans and shoe birdfeeders. We will also use recycled pipes inside the vegetable wall and recycled pots and bricks for our bug hotels.

The western red cedar and framing timber have been sourced from managed and sustainable forests.

Why did you choose the planting scheme?

The colour palette of the plants has been chosen to complement the colour of the other materials used in the garden, as well as helping to create a feeling of relaxation and tranquillity. The warm, rich hue of the cedar wood used throughout the garden is contrasted by dark purples and pinks in the planting, creating a notion of balance and serenity.

We have chosen early flowering plants, which offer colour and scent to the garden at a time when not much else is happening. These are also beneficial to wildlife, which is an added bonus. Finally, the magnolia creates a focal point, as well as adding height and structure.

How does the garden support wildlife?

We have birdfeeders, and the pond is a habitat for wildlife. Plus the planting offers a rich source of nectar and pollen which is important early in the year to help support the life of many beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies.

We also have an aquaponics tank which will house ornamental fish.

What’s your favourite part of the garden?

We love the hand-crafted cedar bench and seating area because of everything that it has to offer. Not only is it a place to sit and relax but it is also a practical area. The aquaponics tank offers a source of fresh vegetables too. The water harvesting pergola also helps make this our favourite area.

With thanks to our suppliers