The sensuous curves of the raised beds were inspired by the sculpture which originally dominated the centre of the garden. We moved it to the corner bed so that it could be seen from the distance its scale requires.
New centrally located steps bring you into the garden. Tools are contained in the small shed and composting is hidden to one side of the shed with a trellis screen masking the utilitarian part of the garden from the main seating area.
The raised beds are constructed from green oak sleepers. Niches are left by the square cut ends to provide planting areas and habitat for insects.
The garden was designed to fit around a large metal sculpture, and complement its curves with the curves of the new raised beds. Previously dominating the centre of the garden, we repositioned “Monster Baby” to a corner of the garden, making it the first feature visible as you enter, while leaving enough distance to view it when seated in the main entertaining area.
The linearity of the sculpture is almost masked during the day time but at night, lighting on each of its legs brings it to the fore. Lighting also highlights the majestic robinia tree and the bamboo at the rear corner, and picks out the objets trouves in the opposite corner.
A small pond with a fountain provides a haven for wildlife and complements the feeling of aural shielding from the sounds of the city.
The raised beds create a topography which encloses the entertaining area. The beds lean back where the curves turn outwards and lean in where the curves turn inwards.
The raised beds give structure to the garden drawing you through the narrow entrance, past the small pond, into the lounge area.
The oak sleepers were charred using the Japanese shou sugi ban technique to preserve and colour them. The sculpture which inspired the design is lit at night which brings out its ominous childlike presence.