Located within the Derwenthorpe development in York, this modern townhouse had an L-shaped garden that lacked definition and a focal point. With a strong preference for contemporary design, the homeowner wanted to introduce a feature that would elevate the space and make the most of its unique shape.

A clear definition of goals was created alongside the homeowner, allowing us to create a design proposal that was both impactful and technically robust.

Material choice was central to the brief. Italian porcelain paving was selected for its clean lines and precision finish, becoming a feature in its own right and showcasing the accuracy of the build.

Good planning and an excellent garden build team resulted in a flawless finish that the homeowners would be proud to show off.

The Site & Brief

The narrow, L-shaped layout limited the possibilities of a traditional garden, but we saw this as an opportunity to introduce flair through a modern pond and water rill used to great effect.

The key objectives were to:

• Create a modern water feature with clean lines that reflect the house’s aesthetic.
• Use modern materials and provide the best possible long-term solution for the lining. of the feature.
• Provide technical drawings for how electricals and pumps would work successfully
• Integrate planting plans that soften the hard landscaping and complement the feature.
• Echo these elements with suitable outdoor lighting.

This was not a simple garden build. Ground conditions were clay, requiring a fibreglass lining for both the pond and rill. Italian porcelain was bullnosed on leading edges to create the bespoke finish the homeowner was seeking. Several existing drains needed to be worked around, making accurate design and detailed planning essential before work could begin.

Referencing the house, its architectural style and the goals of the homeowners, we created a garden design that maximised the limited space while ensuring the technical build ran smoothly.

Once the design stage had been signed off, the build stage went smoothly with our electrician, and fibreglass specialist scheduled when required. Planting plans were created to identify plant choices that worked with the overall design of the garden.

• Successful garden design proposals provided the homeowner with all the information required to see what was possible.
• Planning was very important here: ground conditions and space available were challenging and a robust set of plans was required for this to be successful.
• Modern materials finished with bull nosing added a sleek finish to the garden project in Derwenthorpe, York.
• Electricals and lighting were incorporated for a full garden design and build experience all the way to client handover.
• Professional planting plans and a mood board were created to work closely with the design layout and materials chosen.
• Working within a restricted space required creative thinking and rigorous planning. Identifying potential technical challenges early allowed us to deliver a smooth, efficient build.

Clear planning and a skilled team of landscape professionals resulted in a bespoke modern water garden that transforms this townhouse garden in York.