Client brief:
The sloping garden needed a split-level design, leading to a sunken seating area for a practical and inviting outdoor space. Each level was planned to improve access and usability, ensuring a smooth transition between areas while making the most of the site.
Our design response
We used porcelain ‘Botanic’ tiles to add beautiful floral detail to complement Global Stone’s Siena range ‘Gerusalem’ porcelain for a cohesive paving finish. These tiles introduced subtle colour variation, tying into the planting scheme and creating visual interest throughout the garden.
Blue grasses and dogwoods were chosen for their strong winter presence, providing structure and seasonal color with their distinctive stems. Cool blue tones worked well with orange and purple from long-flowering Salvia ‘Blue Note,’ which also attracted pollinating insects. Salvia ‘Blue Note’ ensured lasting colour through the seasons while supporting biodiversity, adding both function and visual appeal to the garden.
Ornamental grasses lined the sunken seating area, softening the space and adding texture without blocking views or movement. These grasses introduced gentle movement and created a more natural feel, making the space comfortable and visually appealing year-round.
The client’s cat enjoyed exploring the grasses, moving through them and adding an unexpected but playful element to the space. By combining practical hardscaping with low-maintenance planting, we transformed a difficult site into a useful and attractive garden. The result is a functional outdoor area, perfect for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying nature in all seasons.
If you need a garden that works for your space and lifestyle, get in touch today to discuss your project.
Perennial grasses:
Carex testacia ‘Prairie Fire’
Festucia glauca ‘Elijah Blue’
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’
Stipa tenuissima ‘Pony Tails’