ISLINGTON

Whilst full of potential, this typical rectangular London garden was under utilized, uninviting and overgrown - a non-functioning space for its owners. The boundary had fences in disrepair and at the end of the property the local foxes occupied a derelict brick outbuilding.

The garden is substantially overlooked. As the owners wanted to have an outside space for dining, it was a priority to sympathetically improve privacy and to create a more intimate and relaxed seating area. Hopefully, it was clear the owners longed for a lush tropical style planting that could be enjoyed throughout the seasons.

The rear of this property was remodeled, involving the complete removal of the derelict outbuilding and the need to re-establish the boundary walls in with original matching London brick. New retaining walls and steps were built, then rendered and painted a subtle shade of fern green. The effect was to create a terraced garden that immediately felt larger, adding intrigue and interest.

Three distinct areas were created. A lower terrace close to the kitchen for dining and entertaining with steps leading to the middle terrace for admiring planting and views with further steps leading to the upper terrace with cushioned seating under the shade of an oak framed pergola. For functionality high performance porcelain tiles were chosen for both the upper and lower patios, whilst the middle area had wood effect millboard to add complementary texture and form.

Planting incorporated various species of semi mature palms trees and other exotic shrubs, as well as tree ferns, ferns, perennials and grasses enhancing the tropical look. A stunning green living wall was built within the dining area serving as a spectacular centrepiece, whilst a large rustic mirror was placed on the opposite wall for maximum impact and to help bring greenery to the shadiest aspect in the garden.