Cutting Edge
The BRIEF
Gregory Phillips Architects were commissioned by the clients to replace the existing rather undistinguished building constructed in the 1950’s. Their desire was to create a new modern home of distinction above the river valley which would utilise local material and offer views into the surrounding countryside.
The clients required a garden that they would use. One that would integrate with the open plan house design, accentuate the countryside views and provide areas for entertaining, relaxing and sport. This garden was the principle winner at the BALI National Landscape Awards 2012.
The garden design
The finished design included a bore hole, Swimming pool and water wall, Tennis Court and Cricket wicket as well as a full USGA spec golf green (lifted and relocated from Wentworth Golf Course) and informal fairway.
Around the house and flint courtyard extensive areas of paving, decking and resin bonded pathways are complimented by both structural and softer perennial planting and lawns with Gabion walling used to retain new banks and create planters.
Away from the house meandering areas of mown grass border vast areas of wild flowers and bulbs, a Cherry orchard and woodland fringe planting creating natural routes around the garden.
A complete irrigation system was also included along with garden lighting.
The build
Phased over two years around the installation of the house, we started with the major tree surgery and tree planting. This was followed by the installation of a bore hole and planting of over 10,0000 bulbs and native woodland fringe planting.
Significant enhancement and development ground contours were then undertaken using available top soil from the house build and a full USGA spec golf green installed with irrigation.
Extensive areas for wild flowers and grassed areas were then cultivated and seeded and existing levels improved.
Closer to the house land drainage, irrigation and major soil improvement were carried out for the formal lawn and planting areas and replacement mature Yew hedges over 3m high planted.
The Artificial grass Cricket wicket was then fitted. Although to Creative’s design and specification, exterior paving was sub undertaken by the interior stone flooring Company, resin bonding and Tennis Courts by specialist sub contractors.
All planting was designed, supplied and installed by Creative Landscape Co.
The planting
Thousands of plants were carefully selected and planted to transform this space. Part of the formal planting near the terrace is created from clipped topiary cubes of varying heights, punctuated with carpet planting of Lavender, Salvia, Nepeta and clouds of white and silver plants including Astelia and Gaura. Away from the house meandering areas of mown grass border vast areas of wild flowers and bulbs, a Cherry orchard and woodland fringe planting creating natural routes around the garden.
JUDGE’s comments
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