Ongoing project

The garden presented a challenge — the clients had already completed substantial works before engaging the designer. Their brief was to soften the courtyard space and bring new life to the upper overgrown garden.

With the structure already set, the focus shifted to transforming how the garden feels and creating a sense of unity between its two levels. To free up space for planting, the seating area was relocated to the upper garden, where the garden’s greatest asset — its long, stunning views — could finally be fully appreciated. The dining table became the focal point of the lower terrace, reflecting the clients’ love of cooking and gathering with friends. A new pergola, wrapped in trees and climbers, encloses the space as a lush, green room.

The journey through the garden became a feature in its own right. Rather than concealing the strong geometry and large staircase, these elements were embraced. Smaller, angled steps were added to echo Hampstead’s hilly streets and hidden stairways, creating a sense of discovery. At the back of the garden, a shed now conceals a quiet seating nook, reached via a winding path.

The planting was designed to reflect the changing atmosphere of the garden as it rises. The lower terrace draws on the warmth of Mediterranean gardens. Olive, pistachio and arbutus trees bring structure and permanence, underplanted with scented, drought-tolerant species that release their fragrance in the heat of the day — creating a space that invites long lunches and evening gatherings.

As the garden climbs, it gradually merges with the surrounding woodland character of Hampstead. 6 new multi-stem trees chosen for their glowing autumn colour echo the area’s rich seasonal canopy. Beneath them dark paving is softened with layered shade-loving woodland planting which creates a cool, hushed atmosphere. This upper garden becomes a place to slow down — lush, enveloping and quietly restorative. A refined and restrained palette of plants and materials ties both levels together into a calm, welcoming garden full of character and life.

Completed: 2025 - 2026

Contractor: Buffalo landscapes