This 375 sq m North facing family garden in Putney was designed around a stand of five mature Scots Pine trees situated towards the rear of garden. The owner had young children so wanted as large a lawn as possible without compromising the trees or the look of the garden and this was one of the key challenges facing Charlotte Rowe Garden Design. Wide beds, planted with shade-loving perennials, ferns and grasses, wrap around these trees creating a soft, woodland feel to this contemporary London garden. A living willow tunnel and seating area with fire pit are situated within the woodland area. A children’s play area is also situated towards the end of the garden with plenty of space for climbing frame and trampoline.

In the sunnier areas of the garden a large rectangular lawn leads back towards the house where a generous limestone terrace wraps around the new glass kitchen and dining room extension, allowing space for a large dining table with built-in BBQ as well as outdoor sofas. The same stone continues from the inside out, creating a flow around the entire rear of the house and bringing the garden into the living space.

Limestone strips set within gravel paths connect the different zones of the garden and lead the eye to the bottom of the garden increasing the appearance of space.