Set in the beautiful Dorset countryside, this garden began with idyllic views across a neighbouring paddock. However, despite its stunning setting, the space felt underwhelming within the wider landscape and lacked a suitable place to sit and appreciate the surroundings.

Our aim was to make the space feel like an extension of the wider landscape and create somewhere the family could enjoy together throughout the year. Staying in keeping with the rural character of the site, we selected a rustic material palette for the hard-landscaping with contemporary detailing for a fresh feel that supports modern outdoor living.

Working with the natural topography, the final design incorporates a split-level terrace for dining and lounging with carefully positioned structural planting to help frame the views beyond. Traditional border planting has been introduced near the house to add colour and flowering interest around the seating areas, while more informal meadow planting has been used around larger areas of mown lawn to soften the boundary between the garden and the surrounding countryside.

We look forward to seeing this garden begin to take shape soon!