Before the new owners moved in this small courtyard style garden in Balham was an unloved, bare patch of earth with very little privacy.

The clients were carrying out extensive house renovations and wanted a garden that would match the contemporary style and high end finish of the new interior while providing a relaxing place for al fresco dinning and entertaining friends.

The existing fence was removed and new white rendered walls, topped with western red cedar slatted trellis provide a contemporary feel to the garden whilst adding height. In addition, four pleached ornamental pear trees planted along the most overlooked boundary provide additional privacy and seasonal interest.

A low rendered wall with built-in cedar benches divides the main areas of the garden and provides seating for dinning as well as informal seating when friends visit.

A large sculptural feature was built to provide a focal point from the kitchen and draws the eye away from the houses beyond. The long and narrow side return was brightened up with bespoke cedar wall planters which match the trellis work and are filled with fragrant herbs.

Finally, low voltage LED lights are used to illuminate the garden and create an after dark atmosphere, highlighting the main features and providing a gentle wash of light across the paving and walls.