Although there was some structure to the gardens, they were disconnected and had become neglected over the years. Thick bands of trees and shrub planting had become overgrown and imposing, blocking views through the gardens and across the water. Planting had been left unmaintained for years and weeds had taken over. Unmanaged and over-mature stands of woodland were stifling the growth of any understory or ground cover planting, and were, in places, damaging the banks of the canal. The extensive meadows to the west of the site had been left unmanaged, and like much of the site were unnavigable.

I worked closely with the clients to develop proposals for their gardens to create a place of beauty, delight, and surprise. The gardens comprise formal scented terraces and lawns, secret walled gardens, ornamental orchards and fruit gardens, woodlands and managed wildflower meadows. Framed views bring the water into the garden, and the canal and tributaries provide places for wildlife and hidden spots for fishing.

DURING CONSTRUCTION & MASTERPLAN