Historic Village Garden, Kent

Nestled in the heart of a storybook village in the Kent countryside, Historic Village Garden is a deeply personal garden for a home that seems lifted from the pages of a fairytale. Sharing a garden wall with a Grade I listed castle, the design sought to balance openness and privacy, light and shade, and the clients’ wishes for a terrace, a secluded dining area, and a celebration of the existing well, fruit trees, and flowers.

Design Intent
The design began with historic maps, revealing how villagers once travelled to the well before the castle walls enclosed the cottage. This sense of history inspired a garden that feels timeless – a seamless blend of formal and informal elements, using traditional materials and colours distinctive to east Kent. Rich, layered plantings bring intimacy and seclusion while maintaining natural light and long views.

Project Description
A journey of discovery lies at the heart of the design. Meandering brick pathways and lush, textural plantings lead the eye to hidden seating areas and framed views of the surrounding architecture. A winding rill flows from the original well to a sunken seating area, while topiary punctuates drifts of perennials. A formal knot garden provides structure, contrasting beautifully with the softness of a wildflower meadow threaded with roses and shrubs – a garden alive with colour, texture, and seasonal rhythm.

Environmental Responsibility
Sustainability was central to the project. Reclaimed UK stone was used throughout, and a diverse planting palette includes native meadow species, aquatics, and spring bulbs to extend nectar sources for pollinators.