A GENEROUS SLOPING, CONTEMPORARY GARDEN FOR A STRIKING NEW BUILD IN STOKE BISHOP
A dramatically sloping site called for a landscape design to complement the architecturally striking home by Moon Design and Build. The house sits centrally in the plot, with mature trees along the rear boundary forming a dramatic backdrop. A textural dark grey brick facade, with crisp white mortar joints, contrasts against a smooth rendered first floor — the whole site needed a design that would tie in with the house while creating a garden the family could genuinely enjoy, one that follows the sun across the day, moving from bright sunlight into moody shadow.
A home office and deck had already been installed, so the design focused on reassessing the retaining structures and routes through the garden — opening up the different terraced levels and better connecting them to the living spaces. As well as beautifully considered interiors, the house also benefits from balconies overlooking the garden, so the design took in the view from every level. A cedar pergola creates a sense of privacy at the heart of the space.
Planting moves from sun-loving perennials and grasses near the house — chosen to establish quickly and give the garden a settled, established feel from the outset — to a shadier, woodland atmosphere at the top of the garden, where semi-mature trees take over. Limestone paving is complemented by beautiful Purbeck limestone cladding to the retaining walls, creating a rich contrast against the dark brickwork of the house.
A characterful mature magnolia stands proud in the front garden, surrounded by sweeping drifts of planting. A multi-stem Dogwood was added for balance and to extend the season of interest.
A seating area off the living room, framed by sweeping drifts of planting running down the slope, is the perfect spot to enjoy the evening sun. Ample parking is flanked by three standard trees and evergreen planting.
MATERIALS & PRODUCTS
Limestone cladding All Green I Cedar Country Supplies I Limestone cobbles Mandarin Stone I Lighting In-Lite
