Our geologist client asked us to create a garden populated by Jurassic plants in this small South London garden. We built a circular raised bed by digging down in the centre of the garden and using the soil we dug out to fill the surrounding raised bed. This helped to reduce the amount of waste out, as well as reducing the amount of soil and compost needed to fill the raised bed.
Overhead view of the Jurassic garden. The central patio area was dug down to provide soil for the surrounding raised bed, reducing the requirement for bringing in new topsoil.
A water feature with bubbling stone provides animation and sound to enliven the garden. Two connected water butts provide the majority of water for dry spells.
The entrance to the garden is through a corridor down the side of the house. Because the fence posts can not be fixed into the ground by the required amount due to a drain situated below the fence, supports for the fence posts are attached back to the house creating a pergola which will have ivy climb across it bringing the garden closer to the house.
A small square raised bed creates a link between the curved bed and the rectilinear form of the building.
We used Jurassic plants where possible. These included, Trachycarpus Fortunei, Cycad, Ginkgo biloba, magnolia and various types of fern. We also planted a Tetrapanax Papryfier along with various Carex grasses, variegated yucca and Mahonia Soft Caress to add to the exotic feel of the garden.
An upturned tree root will become home to numerous insects and invertebrates.