Rural farmhouse

Client brief

This young family relocated to a new home on a former cattle-grazing field approached by a winding, tree-lined country road. With young children, an elderly relative, and a boisterous Labrador, this was a garden that had to work on many levels simultaneously with practical requirements including accessibility provisions, a vegetable garden, parking and charging facilities. A private outdoor dining area complete with BBQ, fire pit, and lighting that allows evenings to stretch late into the night was a high priority along with space for cycling, play equipment, and informal sports.

The mood board captures a relaxed bohemian style garden that integrates naturally with the surrounding landscape while actively supporting local wildlife. A shabby chic aesthetic with a palette of creams, soft greens, and rusty oranges and reds run through both the planting and hard landscaping. The rear garden is defined by strong curves, layered planting and rich seasonal colour, encouraging slow movement and discovery. Corten steel planters arranged in a flowing S-shape created a sense of enclosure without restricting openness to nearby relaxation spaces.

Practical considerations: Accessibility was a key consideration throughout the design, particularly with young children and an elderly family member. Gravel and loose chippings were avoided in favour of resin-bound gravel, while functional lighting guides movement safely throughout the outdoor space