At the front of the property, we removed an old hedge to open up the space and reinstate the original Forest of Dean stone plinths and railings. These historic features were paired with pleached trees, classic clipped hedging, and white hydrangeas to give the garden a smart, Regency feel. We also added Carpinus ‘Frans Fontaine’ trees near the entrance – tight, upright hornbeams that hold their shape beautifully, planted to reduce the dominance of a mature tree already in place.
We also reinstalled the original Forest of Dean stone pathway, echoing the materials originally used in the 1800s, and replaced the original box hedging (that had been damaged by caterpillar box moth) with yew for a more resilient long-term structure. To complement the formal planting, we installed a separate pedestrian entrance and upgraded the driveway in a grey resin-bound finish, complete with electric gates and a full garden lighting scheme.

At the rear, we focused on connecting the house and garden, despite a significant change in level. We raised the ground closest to the house to meet the threshold of the bifold doors, creating a generous porcelain terrace framed by planters.
To one side of the garden sits a mature bay tree, offering privacy from the neighbours but creating deep shade. Rather than remove it, we turned this corner into a shaded dining space, complete with a cantilevered cedar structure and green screen planting. A false gate and smart screening conceal a utility area, while the overhead canopy creates a cosy, intimate feel, especially when lit in the evenings. From here, the design leads naturally to a bespoke outdoor kitchen – sleek, understated, and perfectly in keeping with the modern rear elevation of the house.
The central lawn was retained for the family’s teenagers, framed on both sides by bold white Torc pots that echo the formality of the front. Two seating areas frame the lawn giving options for enjoying the outdoor space all year round.