Designed for an active family, I felt it was important to separate the garden into distinct spaces to invite both exploration and relaxation. Views from the house down through the garden and on to the river have been carefully maintained, although the seating areas are still comfortably cossetted with multi-stemmed trees and clipped evergreen domes.

The planting around the house is predominantly green to afford lush views out of the large picture windows and sliding doors. A carousel of flowering plants each have their moment to shine here. More flamboyant plant choices border the lawn, making this just as lovely for picnics as it is a great place for play.

Welcoming wildlife and creating a seamless transition to the pastoral landscape beyond was important in this design, hence the increasingly relaxed planting style in the lower end of the garden. As this area is liable to flood, I have created slight bunds to raise walkways, which also enhances opportunities for bog planting and to enrich the area with native species to create a water meadow effect. A rustic, open-sided wooden retreat is ensconced here, with wonderful views onto the river.

In complete contrast to this, the central gravel garden is exuberant and wild with paths weaving between towering grasses, architectural evergreens, self-seeders, and commanding steel structures.

A small vegetable garden extends towards the house with fruit trees incorporated around the terrace, as well as large herb planters and a currant patch.

The utility area is tucked around the side of the house, with practical storage solutions and a wide sloped path to ensure ease of access.