New build traditional, Clayton 2013

Relocating from London to a Sussex new build, this mature couple longed for a garden packed with Traditional English Garden favourites. The garden area was east facing and shaded by tall fencing and buildings. Two thin lines of paving hugged the house, with poor shallow soil over builder rubble and blue anaerobic clay. In addition, a late winter planting was required to have the scheme ready on time.

The clients’ wish list included species fruit trees and fruiting shrubs, as well as favourite roses and clematis and honeysuckles. All this, and a patio, was to fit within a 6m by 4m space on rubble with a shed and space for the bins!

The challenge was to create depth with an inviting view across a very small lawn, with plants that would cloak the fence in a short while, and provide the romance of living in the country. All plants were chosen for their compact tall habit to help elongate the view, provide interest on all the vertical surfaces, and quickly reach the sunnier areas near the fence tops. A bistro table and chairs made best use of the widened patio for romantic breakfasts.