Our intention was to create visual drama as you enter the driveway through the back gates, and to partially screen the house. This was achieved by planting an avenue of ornamental Pear Trees, off set with clipped rows of beech hedging and rich herbaceous planting. We designed a 3m footpath of reclaimed granite kerbstones through the lawn, to allow direct access to the front door. This path forms a striking linear design that works with the strong geometry created by the clipped rows of Beech hedges. These dynamic lines were very much needed to detract from the asymmetric shape of the existing garden. We installed new bespoke boundary hardwood fencing to the whole garden, and planted pleached Hornbeams, with high panels of 1.5m above the fence height. This immediately framed the space and created privacy for the client. The design of the swimming pool and garden room is a key feature. We chose to create a dramatic stone clad feature wall adjacent to the pool that has 5 wide spouts that pour into the pool, and create a soft gentle noise. The garden room is a bespoke design and integrates seamlessly with the deck and pool. The most interesting existing feature is the beautiful Walnut tree that overhangs a central section of the lawn, its position was key to our design, and the views through to other hidden areas. The overall planting scheme is a rich tapestry of pinks, purples, magentas, blues and whites, offering seasonal interest and wonderful coppery tones in Autumn with the Beech hedging and grasses. The garden for this modest riverside Richmond house is very much appreciated by the clients who are keen gardeners when time allows, and offers plenty of opportunities for extending their horticultural skills.