The Eco Build Garden

Designing for this contemporary eco-build on the north coast of Cornwall presented a complex set of environmental challenges.

Wrapping around the property on three sides, the site was predominantly north-facing and shaded by neighbouring properties. There was also the potential for wind tunnel effects and a highly alkaline soil profile resulting from reclaimed crushed construction materials being used to make up the ground level.

Some key design elements included:

• Climate-Resilient Planting: I curated a palette of exceptionally hardy, shade-tolerant species capable of withstanding the challenging conditions. The focus was on a beautiful naturalistic aesthetic to provide structural interest and colour all year-round.

• Thoughtful zoning: The design carefully integrated the clients' existing outdoor features from a previous garden, including furniture and a water feature, while optimising light and creating flow to maintain a sense of cohesive design.

• Spatial Engineering: I used strong geometric lines softened by planting, to accommodate the substantial footprint of seating and leisure features within a limited area. This ‘structured naturalism’ ensures the garden feels intentional and organized, not crowded.

• Fluid Entertaining: I designed the primary circulation paths to run alongside the main seating area. This allows the walkways to double as overflow entertaining space, maximizing the garden's functionality whilst protecting planting space.

• Integrating Ecology: By retaining and renovating a short strip of existing native hedge, the design introduces an instant element of wildlife habitat and maturity to the garden.

This design not only embraced world-renowned plantswoman Beth Chatto’s philosophy of ‘right plant, right place’ but expanded it to ‘right feature, right space’, providing a sustainable design which truly optimises and complements the site.