Conservation Area Garden In Hertfordshire

Jackie was asked to turn this 36 square metres of enclosed garden into a sociable space for sitting and entertaining. Although they love plants, the clients were very clear that they didn't want a lawn and that the garden should need as little maintenance as possible. It was also very important to them that their Cockerpoo, Lola, should be able to enjoy the garden too. So lots of opportunities for sniffing, playing and observing as only a Cockerpoo can!

As a garden designer, Jackie is accustomed to working with a wide range of people and spaces but this, was definitely among the smallest of her projects in terms of square footage. Never one to be discouraged, she set about creating layout and planting plans for what would turn out to be an amazing space.

The biggest challenges for this project however, laid outside of the garden. Being an old street in an even older city, access was very tricky; Entry was via a path through a neighbouring garden and parking for the landscaper's vehicles was very tight indeed. As for storage space for materials - well - there was hardly any of that. Project management needed to be on point at every stage of the build.

Despite all of the challenges with the size of the garden and the access, this space is absolutely divine. Gone are the overgrown shrubs and the tired lawn. Instead, Jackie has created a contemporary space that is perfectly in keeping with the century-old property.�

A dining area at one end of the garden is joined by a pretty path to an inviting seating area which Lola the Cockerpoo quickly claimed as her own. Textural changes between the patios and the path create another layer of interest.

Hard landscaping is hugged by a beautiful planting scheme. Creating a serrated edge to the path seamlessly merges the hard and soft landscaping to give a relaxing ambience, just right for entertaining friends and family.

We love the use of natural stone slabs and setts in this garden. Egyptian Limestone is a timeless material that suits contemporary and traditional garden designs. The gentle colour is warm, yet helps to make the space feel a little bigger. Top marks to Jackie and the team at JPD Landscaping for a beautiful design built to a high standard.