The design creates a chic and serviceable space, combining style with versatility to allow a variety of entertaining possibilities.
The space features a series of square and rectangular decking platforms of various sizes laid with dark maroon Massaranduba hardwood boards. Starting at ground level in the side return directly adjoining the house, each subsequent platform is raised slightly above the next, creating an exciting sense of varied levels and helping to create the illusion of a host of distinct areas to the garden.
The varied sizes and shapes of the platforms allow for a wide range of uses, with larger platforms suitable for dining, BBQ or sculptural seating, interlinked by longer, thinner decking walkways.
A strong architectural focal point to the space is provided by the walkway crossing the middle of the space. Rusted steel re-enforcing mesh is used here to create a simple yet highly effective 'cage' tunnel, through which a variety of climbers have been encouraged to grow.
The right hand wall is painted a deep, sensual shade of aubergine and forms the backdrop to a large decked patio that is of the main seating/dining areas. At the end of the space a small, podium-style platform steps down to a small area of artificial turf, edged with a flush level decking frame, that provide a secluded area suitable for sunbathing, relaxing, reading and alfresco naps.
Planting in the space is simple and striking, featuring a combination of Iris and Alliums for a stunning spring scheme, and graceful Stipa Gigantica, Eremus, Crocosmia and Verbena bonaries chosen to take centre stage during the summer months. The cage tunnel and purple wall play host to climbing Akebia, Clematis and Honeysuckle.
The lighting scheme combines playfulness with simplicity. Spotlights on the back of the house bathe the side return and main decked patio in light, while LED deck lights on the risers of each step help to guide the user safely through the space. The cage tunnel in the middle of the garden is adorned with fairy lights, while rope lights sited underneath the visible edges of the walkways and platforms give the walkways and platform a floating appearance when the sun goes down. The artificial lawn is framed by micro LED lights set into the surface of the decking edging.
"The team from Earth Designs were spot on, from the first design session through to the glass of champagne at the end. Build, planting, lights and fixtures were all above my expectations, and one year on the garden is giving me a great space to enjoy and entertain in. I'd recommend Earth Designs to anyone looking for a high quality, professional job, with a great deal of imagination thrown in."
