Absolutely echo comments above regarding raising the soil level around the tree, a big no no as it will mean at best the tree will struggle and fail to thrive and will probably eventually die. Decking is a good solution if you want to install a seating area around the tree, with planting around it to soften the edges. I would maybe look at a composite decking as it will mean less maintenance and will not become as slippery as timber in a shaded area, also if going for a contemporary look it can look very sleek, especially if choosing a grey or even black. You could also add in some lower growing shrubs, herbaceous, spring bulbs etc and create a edge of woodland feel to this area, which would have interest and create a lovely view, whatever the time of year. What ever you do good luck.

Can you have your wall units pulled out so they are the same depth as your tall units? I would also line up the height of your appliances and wall units. The wooden worktop on the island unit I would match this finish to the floor and splash back seen in CGI two. Not necessarily the same finish but certainly tones.

Hi there, The square back part of your garden has exactly the same measurements as mine! I had the same dilemma when trying to come up with a design for it: trying to find one that wouldn't look just like a dinning set with plants around it, but what I found is that if you want to have an eating area on a garden this size, then you don't have much space left, and trying to create rooms would just make it feel very packed and small (which you don't want). So I embraced the seating area surrounded by plants. I used raised beds, which bring the planting up to the eye level and when you are sitting in the garden it gives you a nice feeling of being surrounded, almost embraced by nature. I would reserve the side return area for your child to play and, maybe in the future it could become an additional seating area (its good to have seating area in different places of the garden so that you can follow the sun - or the shade, whatever you prefer, through the day) with more nice planting. As Sonia pointed out, your paving looks in good condition, and I would add that it fits the Mediterranean style that you are looking for, which is very good, since hardscaping can be an expensive part of a garden. The walled garden/courtyard also add up to the Mediterranean look, the next thing you could do is go for a Mediterranean style planting with a neat, contemporary feel (easy to do in a garden with the aspect that yours have). If you need any additional help, I do garden design and consultations, including sketches and planting plans, which are very affordable options. Please get in touch if you are interested. Good luck with your garden! Deborah The Rooted Concept Garden Designs deborahbiasoli@gmail.com

Hi there, By the looks of things it seems like you have a good space to play with there (even taking the new garage into account)! Where you put each area that you listed will depend a bit on the dimensions of your garden, and also on things such as if you would like to seat on sun or shade. One thing to keep in mind is that the planting should be chosen carefully especially if you require low maintenance, as plants that are suited for the environment they are in require much less care than the ones that are not. So not only if the plant requires staking, prunning too often etc must be taken into account when choosing the planting, but also things like soil type, aspect, microclimate, final plant dimensions etc. I offer a range of affordable garden design services that are all done online. Please, have a look at my website to find out more and see my portfolio and do contact me for a quote if you are interested. I would be very happy to help you with this project with a custom made design and plant selection for a garden that suits your needs and looks lush year around! www.therootedconceptgardendesign.co.uk All the best, Deborah The Rooted Concept Garden Design