Country Estate, Sussex

This design for the gardens and surrounding landscape of a Grade 1 Listed Georgian house centres on a respect for the surrounding landscape and the creation of a garden which provides the main view from the house, as well as providing an accessible garden for a young family.

A formal garden of Taxus baccata and Ilex crenata topiary alongside tumbling roses around an existing ornamental pond leads through tall yew columns to a slate-lined swimming pool and outside kitchen and dining area. A kitchen garden provides culinary herbs and cut flowers for the house. The planting design incorporated the use of both shrubs and perennials to create a traditional atmosphere with a touch of the contemporary.

Borders around the house have a relaxed feel, linking the house with the surrounding gardens in an effectively informal way. Climbing and rambling roses alongside scented jasmine clothe the walls of the house.