Cleveland
The Challenge
Clemens and Jessica sought a complete garden design overhaul, envisioning an outdoor space that balanced privacy with a modern aesthetic. As we began the project, a few surprises surfaced: hidden concrete, an old path, and subpar soil that needed extensive excavation. Alongside the crumbling concrete wall on the left, we ended up removing 20 tons of soil and debris to create a clean slate for the garden design. With a focus on durability, we replaced the wall with a robust larch screen that would stand the test of time.
The Garden Design and Creation
The new garden design prioritised clean lines, privacy, and a contemporary feel, perfectly in line with Clemens and Jessica's vision for a sophisticated yet welcoming outdoor space. We began the transformation by installing a sleek fence, which we then painted to harmonise with the surrounding landscaping elements. To enhance privacy and add an elegant touch, we installed Siberian larch batten screens, which bring both durability and a timeless look to the garden. This additional seclusion allows Clemens and Jessica to enjoy their outdoor area in a tranquil and private setting.
The clients selected Florence grey porcelain from London Stone for the paving, a choice that brings a modern edge to the design. We laid this premium porcelain across two distinct areas, creating a harmonious flow from one section of the garden to the other. A stepping stone path connects these spaces, leading up through the garden and adding visual interest. The layout encourages exploration while offering a defined pathway that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the plants.
To add structure, we built raised beds from sturdy oak sleepers, which not only provide a durable framework but also introduce natural textures and tones that contrast beautifully with the porcelain paving. These raised beds allow for enhanced drainage and more planting opportunities, enriching the garden’s overall design. Garden lighting, installed by Jelvis, subtly illuminates the space in the evenings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The lighting design highlights focal points throughout the garden, adding both functionality and atmosphere.
After completing the hard landscaping, we took a brief pause to allow Vivid Green to install a luxury outbuilding. This feature enhances the usability of the garden, providing Clemens and Jessica with an additional space to relax and entertain. A few months later, we returned to complete the soft landscaping. We levelled the ground with care and laid fresh, vibrant turf to form a lush green lawn.
To complete the look, we brought in 18 tons of fresh topsoil, meticulously levelled it, and prepared it for planting. Along the right border, we planted eight multi-stemmed bay trees, each reaching two metres in height, providing privacy and a sense of enclosure. We complemented these with an array of shrubs, including lavender, catnip, perovskia, verbenas, and white hydrangeas, which add colour and fragrance throughout the seasons. Additionally, we added fragrant jasmines, trained around frames, and clusters of black-stemmed bamboo. This stunning bamboo wall, complete with root barriers, forms a living wall, blending beautifully with the other plantings and offering year-round visual appeal.
The New Garden Landscape
The completed garden showcases a stunning blend of modern landscaping design and a soft, natural planting scheme that brings both texture and colour to the space.
Final touches included mulching, decorative chippings, and a thorough cleaning of all paving, ensuring everything looked pristine. This tranquil, thoughtfully designed space now offers Clemens and Jessica a private, beautiful garden retreat to enjoy year-round, whether they’re entertaining guests or relaxing on their own. Each element was crafted to create a harmonious balance, turning the garden into a personal sanctuary that truly reflects their lifestyle.