A generous paved terrace outside the patio door, perhaps even brought up to door cill height if possible (decking is best for this as not to compromise the DPC level), in this way it provides an inviting space to lead you out on to. I agree a focal point at the far side of the garden in line with the doors could be really striking and the existing dark green hedge provides a good foil. It could be many things such as sculpture, a seat, a feature shrub/tree or water feature. Lighting is essential so it can be enjoyed at night and in the winter when you don't go out. I would avoid a straight path to it though as it'll make the garden appear shorter. You want to take a visitor on a journey through the garden, providing different areas of interest. As for BBQ, it sounds like its best placed on the left hand side so you can enjoy the evening sun? Its difficult to see the garden layout without more photos or a rough plan. Looks like its got real potential, depending on how much you want to spend, but work could be phased with a design to work to. Consider consulting with a garden design professional if you're serious of a reasonable investment in the garden as they will be best placed to advise you and offer material and cost options. Good luck!

Anyone??

Hi Danny, I think that overall, this rough shape that you have already established (an area for patio outside the house, a lawn with a path down the middle to a second - possibly seating? - area) looks good for a modern formal design for a garden of your shape. I don't really know the measurements, but from the pictures it seems that the patio area outside the house seems a bit on the small side. I would make it a bit bigger so that you can put some seating provision in it, maybe with a fire bowl (since as I understand it this is a shady area?). You also need space for planting to make this garden come alive. I would create planting areas around the seating areas and also along the lawn area. I didn't really understand where the change in level is (and hence where you want to put the retaining wall), but I would possibly plant along that retaining wall as well. I would go for an elegant planting scheme with grasses and discrete whites and maybe cool blues and possibly use some box balls or something similar to line the borders, so that the planting also has a modern look to go with the design. If you need any further help, I offer a range of online affordable garden design services - from sketches and planting plans only to garden plans with planting plans and 3D visuals add ons. I would be very happy to help with a tailored solution for you lovely space! Good luck with your garden, Deborah The Rooted Concept Garden Designs

@Angie Hi Angie, thank you for you response! I too think that Jonathan's ideas and the Pergola might be a viable option! I also think bringing more curves and making the space as bright as possible will help too. Yes, we will want to try and create as much privacy as possible but I do believe there are some restrictions in the title deeds that I will have to navigate so natural screening will likely be the best option. The design is based on the 'Edinburgh Colonies' which have always been very community-focused, so I guess the idea is to try and re-create the spirit of them in the 21st century (Likely, a very difficult task!) There's a little article about the design of the original houses https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/history-edinburgh-colonies-how-name-18059666 Thanks again! M