Private Residence – Shackleford
A comprehensive renovation and extension project to the main house and outbuilding were completed mid-2020 and attention then turned to the garden. The clients appointed Taylor Tripp Garden Design and together they came up with the brief for the new garden. The aim was to create a relatively low-maintenance space that offers year-round interest through form, scent, structure, and colour. The planting was to be simple and calm, with wilder elements to complement both the house and its rural surroundings.
The garden was designed to encourage use of all areas, providing varied atmospheres and a cohesive flow around the house and outbuildings. Emphasis was placed on maximizing views from within the house and garden, transitioning from formal areas near the house to more informal, romantic spaces. Sheltered seating areas were incorporated to enjoy the sun at different times of the day, with very subtle lighting to enhance evening enjoyment. Lawn and planting Irrigation was considered for new plantings, and traditional materials and reclaimed architectural items were used to complement the house. Protective measures were considered and installed to protect against deer, rabbits, and dogs in the immediate area to the rear of the property.
When it came to delivering the project a comfortable seating terrace in front of the dining room was softened with planting and featured new steps leading to a large, flat lawn with beautiful borders. The views from the house to the pond were preserved. The terrace links well with the kitchen/swimming pool areas and the drawing room garden, creating a level and proportionate space. New steps were designed and built to minimize their dominance from the pond. The new lawn area creates a larger and more usable space. Climbing roses soften the swimming pool building, and running coping steps were incorporated into the bank leading to the pond. The main terrace is enclosed with subtle iron work around the top of the walls with iron gates featuring a discreet locking mechanism.
The kitchen/swimming pool area features a seating/dining area for ten. The drawing room garden is a simple and elegant space with a central pathway, a blue and white planting scheme, a seating area for quiet reflection, and a pair of elegant oak gates leading to the front of the house.