This east-facing courtyard of 40 square metres lay hidden behind a new build townhouse in Islington. The owners wanted to maximise their outdoor space and include a fireplace, a breakfast bar and an outdoor shower – quite a lot in such a small space.

The design concept was to lower one side of the courtyard and incorporate a large fireplace and a generous built-in timber day bed and log store, creating a lovely sunken seating area.

The other half of the courtyard was built at a slightly higher level and became the couple’s ‘dance floor’ and shower area as well as an informal eating area with a raised bar in grey polished concrete.

Charlotte Rowe Garden Design used bespoke large format polished concrete tiles specified to complement the internal flooring and dark timber fencing and walls to match the bar. The dark backdrop around the garden sets off the rich textural planting which includes a number of evergreen ferns and grasses as well as perennials and shrubs in a deep burgundy and russet colour palette. Three specimen trees give the courtyard height and provide winter interest. The garden lighting creates a dramatic effect at night.