Four Springer Spaniels and some very large surrounding Lime trees had ravaged the existing lawn of this small shady South West-facing garden in Holland Park. In addition, a large sub basement was being built below so effectively most of the garden was a roof terrace with large unattractive light wells set within the garden to allow light down below.

Therefore, Charlotte Rowe Garden Design decided that a series of stone terraces threading their way through wide, abundantly planted beds would not only create a journey through the space and detract from the light wells to some extent, but also give a year-round green view from the house unhindered by dogs and shade. The garden is on two levels with most of the garden leading at the same level from the living room, with steps down to a compact dining area with a built-in BBQ as well as a work shed with a green roof.

The client had asked for bold and colourful planting. One year on from finishing the garden, the Clematis, Star Jasmine and flowering quinces, have taken hold on the boundary walls, and a profusion of colour from the Geums, Salvia and Crocosmia are abundantly spilling over the walls.

At night, the dramatic up-lighting on the multi-stem Crab Apple trees and the cross lighting on the terraces turn the garden into a sophisticated entertaining space.