Islington, London

A  haven for wildlife, this garden was the result of long conversations with the clients who were looking for a characterful solution to a large empty space situated in a conservation area.

A pond and summerhouse were created, echoing the natural lines of the design which locates a play lawn amongst curving beds which lead along and around the garden.

A vegetable garden with beds and espaliered fruit trees sits to one side with historic walls forming part of its boundary.

Native plants sit alongside ornamental perennials and a generous shrub planting including hydrangeas, cornus and sambucus for structure, together with  trees selected for a continuous display of blossom and leaf colour, including amelanchier, magnolia, cercis and acers.

An oak pergola smothered with climbing roses and clematis leads to a separate wing of the house, whilst a reclaimed York stone terrace leads to a covered outdoor kitchen tucked away to one side, out of view.

A true family garden, it is a space for children’s play, for entertaining friends and family, and for two very happy cats.

Photography by Rachel Warne