Contemporary Mediterranean Garden

Location: Somerset West
Completed: December 2018

BRIEF: Leoni and Steve simply wanted a garden that they could enjoy spending time in and were able to entertain in. They needed a very restful place to come home to and relax in. Their style is fuss free simplicity and they liked the idea of a Mediterranean theme. 

CHALLENGES: Uneven steps, paving that was inappropriate for outdoor use, chaotic, overgrown planting areas, no particular theme or style, struggling lawn in the shade, disconnected areas.
 
SOLUTIONS:
Terrace area: We chopped up and recreated the steps, chopped out the paving on the top terrace and covered it with gravel which then extended into the surrounding planting areas, unifying it as a as a stone-mulched gravel garden. 
Facing walls and water feature were clad and topped in slate which changed the feeling completely, giving it a timeless, grounded, stately feel. We used a palette of cool colours throughout - grey/ silver, white, blue and purple - for the restfulness it brings and connection to the lavender coloured exterior walls.  
We installed a pergola for Wisteria to climb and a matching heavy-duty, 3m reclaimed wood table and benches for summer al fresco living.  

Lawn area: The lawn was levelled and edged with cobbles in a large, pleasingly symmetrical square and connected to other areas with pathways. 

Front entrance: A Koi pond and deck walkway were installed to which we added water plants and a block bench for watching fish as well as de-cluttering and upgrading the planting. An LED strip light below the deck improves safety and  creates an exciting effect at night (see picture box, left).