Like so many town houses that are split into separate dwellings, this garden is situated to the rear of a large house. The owner lives on the first and second floors of the property, so it is therefore extremely important that the garden looks as interesting from above as it does from ground level. Size is an issue here, so by breaking the space up into different zones, accessed by boardwalk paths, the garden becomes more interesting and seems infinitely larger than it really is. The garden is overlooked and receives very little sun, so privacy and light are paramount considerations here. However, low light levels provide the perfect opportunity to give a garden a tropical feel, offering the owner an soothing refuge from the city. Using large specimen palms, instant impact can be created, combined with upward lift among informal drifts of smaller plants, which will swell and grow in moist humus-rich soil.
In this garden, the client really wanted some drama, in order to provide a sociable space with a wow factor in which to entertain after dark. Adding electric lights instantly adds impact, while natural light, by way of lanterns, flares and candles, creates soft intrigue where it is needed. A large collection of lanterns and Moroccan wall lights are utilized at key points to maximize the mood and create a garden that really comes into its own after dark.
DESIGN ELEMENTS
This striking and characterful garden is inspired by the gardens of the Orient, Morocco and the East. Colour, water and exoticism are important ingredients, with large, verdant specimen plants adding impact and height to this north-facing space. The garden is designed to be used all year round, and be as wonderful at night as it is in the day. This is a garden for entertaining after dark; a nocturnal space, dripping with atmosphere, rich with magic, mystery and intrigue.
On warm evenings, lighting can transform the garden into a relaxing, leafy otherworld. Privacy is maximized by tall swathes of bamboo and an overhead shade sail, whilst the sound of water creates a tranquil filter to the sound of the city, all combining to make the lounger on the terrace irresistible.
