Modern Country Living – Abbots Leigh, Bristol
- Location - Abbots Leigh, Bristol
- Our Role - Design
- Type - Private Residential
- Size - 400 m²
- Status - In Construction
- Year - 2023
One of the features of this property and garden is the long view of the neighbouring field and rolling countryside. Due to the layout of the internal rooms and the orientation of the house, this view cannot be fully appreciated from the main living areas. Additionally, quirky levels between the kitchen diner and the main living areas are also reflected in the external environment with an existing level change of approximately 750mm from the kitchen diner to the garden. Our challenge was to design a garden that is interesting from within the house, provide areas to entertain, garden and relax to take in the surrounding countryside.
Using raised planters, positioned on an angle from the house, we have been able to direct the eye out towards the main dining entertaining area located away from the house. This not only leads the eye but also has given us the opportunity to bring planting in towards the house. The dining area is reached via a clay paver path and flanked on either side by planting both at ground level and raised which also gives the additional benefit of adding suitable planting for privacy. Our design splits the garden in two with strong geometry and a feature picture frame pergola. Large planting beds have been designed to give the feeling of intimacy and entice the user to journey through the garden to see what is beyond. The second or furthest garden to the house is more reflective of the long countryside views and takes on a natural unfussy feel. A vegetable and working garden area has been added at the end of the path, that divides the garden, where it will gain the most sun whilst not dominating the space. A further journey is created winding its way down towards the end of the garden where a deck and adjacent wildlife pond can be enjoyed. A bench nestles neatly beneath the existing tree to provide a further reflective and peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the setting sun over the fields beyond.
