Our clients' property is set in 2 acres of mature woodland setting, within a prestigious private estate. Their newly-built 'Huf-Haus' is a pre-fabricated, precision-manufactured building from Germany. Cutting edge in design, this highly modern wooden structure is glass fronted on all sides and its elevated position commands stunning views of the Surrey countryside. The stone used for the terraces and paved surfaces around the house is flamed French limestone, a stylish cream coloured material, imported from Lyons especially for this project.... continues below
The large front lawn has been completely re-laid and the planting plan designed to inject colour and diversify the scheme providing interest throughout the year and privacy from the sweeping drive. The area nearest the east boundary has been cleared and changed in favour to our client's wish to make a strong feature of the existing Monkey Puzzle tree.
Moving to the rear garden along the same boundary, limestone steps lead down to a paved swimming pool terrace. Two further flights of Limestone steps take you up to the main paved area where low planted beds on either side, topped with slate mulch, enable uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside. A sunken fibreglass pool of still water reflects the open sky above and adds to the serenity of this area. All retaining and screening walls constructed have been rendered in a 'Caramello' pastel shade and topped with French limestone capping.
The designed hard and soft landscape has a sleek and clean feel about it, to marry the modern building and complement the beautiful setting.
Due to the elevated position of the house the rear grounds originally comprised of a steep slope densely covered with Rhododendrons ranging in heights of up to three metres. It was necessary to clear this area before any surveying or landscape work could commence.
The steep slope has been made accessible by a series of garden terraces and access created via lawned paths and decked steps. Injection of colour into this part of the garden was the main requirement; our clients favoured whites, pinks, reds and yellows.
Shrubs, particularly with variegated leaves, have been selected to add structure and to integrate colourful foliage into the planting scheme. Herbaceous perennial and grasses have been inserted to bring out the preferred colours, include movement and texture, and draw attention to flowers through the seasons. Perennials and grasses have been planted in natural looking drifts, and shrubs arranged in a more organised way, laid diagonally to top wall and to the flights of steps.
A Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' acts as a focal point when looking at the upper terraces from the lower deck. These are flanked on either side by two Amelanchier ovalis 'Edelweiss'. One further Amelanchier draws the attention when stepping onto the third terrace from the eastern steps.