Working with architects
Sometimes architects need garden designs to get planning permission, or to set off a new-build/extension. Sophie works within the planning constraints set down by the local Planning Department to achieve what the client wants. Here, the home owners wanted lots of different areas: a bank to cache the building from view (planning requirement) with a fire pit in a wildflower meadow, a formal entrance and parking area, and a front garden with lots of different aspects as you strolled through tall planting including a terrace near the how to dine, a pond, a lawn and a greenhouse, all well screened from the road.
Front garden in May 2026, 29 months after planting
The path down to the sunken garden in May 2026, 29 months after planting.
Using a brize soleil to keep the house cool in summer - it lets the light through but keeps the direct sun off the window (photo courtesy of Charles Emerson photography)
Work on the big pond starts - water slowly filling it from installed roof collections. October 2022
The big pond is now full of water; pond plants starting to emerge. September 2023
The big pond in June 2025
Front garden May 2025, 17 months after planting
The final plan for the whole site.
Planting plan for the whole site.
An example of a garden design submitted to the Wiltshire Planning Department – a requirement before building this barn conversion could start.
May 2024, five months in, with pergola/brize soleil to shade the S side of the building
The front garden June 2023 , working backwards as we lay out soil
The front garden during building works September 2022
The front garden levels about to be sorted Spring 2023
Front garden pond with the first water lily leaves appearing, May 2024. planting 5 months in
The front garden pond ready for lining and cladding
The front garden pond being built
The front garden pond being dug, here ready for the concrete pad to be laid
Garden 2025
Garden 2025
The roof terrace being installed
The roof terrace with the sedum lawn well rooted
The sedum lawn in flower