Stratford-upon-Avon Living May - Jun 2021

CREATE PRIVACY
You may not have room for large
evergreen trees and shrubs to create
privacy. But, would a row of one of the
many columnar varieties that provide
height—without the width—work? If only
seasonal screening is needed, perhaps
narrow, columnar, deciduous trees or
shrubs would be suitable? Or perhaps
growing well-behaved climbers (e.g.
jasmine or annual vines) on a vertical
trellis would be the best solution.
ADD A WATER FEATURE
Water features are always a great
addition to a garden. While a pond and
waterfall may not be realistic, a simple
recirculating wall fountain or bubbling
tabletop pot may be the answer.
MAKE EVERY SQUARE INCH
COUNT
Focus on high-value trees, shrubs, and
perennials that offer multiple seasons of
interest with attractive leaves, seasonal
flowers, unique textures, colourful bark
and/or great autumnal colour.
CREATE SECTIONS
The garden to the right has three
sections, all with clear individual
purposes – making the space feel bigger
because of the multifunctional uses. The
top level features a patio, which is bathed
in morning sunshine. A central seating
area made for socialising and the bottom
deck houses a water feature. Then there’s
the homeowner’s ‘she shed’.
KEEP THE COLOUR PALETTE
SIMPLE
Two or three colours in varying shades,
together with green, will be less visually
cluttered than a jelly-bean-like explosion.
CREATE A SENSE OF ORDER
Clean lines bring an orderly feel to the
garden. A clear rectilinear design can
define spaces, while flowing organic
curves can be used to soften awkward
angles.
USE THE DIAGONAL AXIS
A typical new build garden is often wide
but shallow. Looking straight across the
back garden therefore emphasises the
shortest dimension. Alter the perspective
by turning the patio, planting beds, and
sight lines 45-degrees to line up with the
Image from Colin Poole
diagonal axis, creating the illusion of a
much larger space.
LOOK FOR COMPACT PLANTS
Choose plants that won’t overwhelm
the ground plane, but don’t be afraid to
include moderate sized or columnar trees
to achieve the appropriate scale.
Image from Moda
Furnishings
SOCIABLE
SEATING
Image from Dobbies
Corner sofas are a great addition to the garden,
extending the feel of living space outside. We
love options with room to lounge, but also those
with interchangeable tables which allow for
dining, making the space more versatile. Opt for
neutral colours and style with cushions so you
can freshen up the look any time.
To increase the usability of the space through
the year and intothe cooler evenings, some
element of heating is wise. We love the options
from Moda Furnishings, which have either gas
fireplaces within the table, or the pure theatre
of an inset grill and corresponding ice bucket
for drinks - you need never leave the table!
Patio heaters have also come a long way in
design and functionality.
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