Mediterranean-Style Garden with Steep Slope and Waterfall, Buckinghamshire
BRIEF
We were asked to redesign this garden in Chearsley, Buckinghamshire, where a steep slope close to the house presented both a challenge and an opportunity.
The owner had spent considerable time in Greece and wanted to evoke the character of a Mediterranean garden. Much of the existing planting had also become tired and needed renewal.
Our challenge was therefore to make much better use of the dramatic changes in level while creating a more inviting garden with a strong Mediterranean atmosphere.
DESIGN SOLUTION
We embraced the slope rather than trying to disguise it, using terraces, steps and careful contouring to make the garden substantially more usable.
A cobbled terrace surrounded by olive trees and Mediterranean-style planting establishes the character, while the multi-level terraces provide year-round structure and interest.
Sweeping rope arches covered with climbers introduce drama and echo the rope handrails used on one of the slopes.
At one end of the garden, a secluded seating area overlooks a waterfall cascading down the slope into a reflecting pool. Scented climbers screen an existing brick wall while also helping disguise the smell from a nearby oil tank.
Around the pool, lusher green planting deliberately contrasts with the drier Mediterranean character elsewhere, creating an unexpected change in atmosphere and a greater sense of discovery as you move through the garden.
