Back Garden Makeover in North Curry

Posted 10th December 2020

In Garden Design, Landscaping, Uncategorised

Find out how Silver Birch Gardens transformed a sad, uninspiring plot into a relaxing haven in this case study of our back garden makeover in North Curry

This beautiful Somerset property set in the village of North Curry was sadly let down by its somewhat tired garden. When Dan Richards, from Silver Birch Gardens, first visited the site he found a mid-sized back garden with a lovely sunny aspect and plenty of privacy. The garden sloped slightly towards the house. Two pretty little olive trees took pride of place in an otherwise unremarkable lawn. A small pond had seen better days and overgrown shrubs were not quite managing to disguise the shed and utility area.

A new garden design

Dan gathered all of the measurements he needed, and discussed design ideas with the homeowners, then set about reimagining this back garden.

Using 3D CAD garden design software, Dan created visuals where a series of circles and curved flower beds used every single part of the garden. One of the olive trees already in the garden was to form part of the central feature.

Every garden should have at least one “destination” with an interesting journey leading to it. Dan has used a summerhouse painted to co-ordinate with the door of the property as the destination in this garden.

Dan decided to replace the lawn, which never really thrived, with some lower maintenance surfaces. Raised beds built from sustainable timber lift the planting so that it can be enjoyed more easily.

Several seating areas mean that the homeowners can choose to follow the sun (or the shade) around the garden all day long.

Building the garden

This was a particularly exciting garden to build. The landscapers at Silver Birch Gardens enjoy a challenge and getting those curves just right really did call for a lot of precision work. Dan’s design called for swathes of limestone slabs teamed with slimline clay pavers. In keeping with Dan’s passion for sustainability, the clay pavers were sourced from Chelmer valley – a UK based company with an excellent reputation.

The landscapers used beautiful oak timbers to create the raised planters. These are the perfect height to sit on and perfect for easy-weeding. None of the beds are particularly wide, so they can be maintained with minimum bending or stretching.

New fencing from Jackson’s Fencing screens the road and makes the garden feel wonderfully secluded.

The original shed and utility area is still there – but it’s very well hidden, you need to look closely at the pictures to spot it!

The planting

The crowning glory of this back garden makeover is the planting. Dan’s choice of plants reflects the fact that his clients love to see birds and insects enjoying their garden.

Cottage garden favourites such as iris, peony, and hosta fill the raised beds with colour, texture, scents, and seasonal interest.

Acid loving rhododendrons and camellias grow beside the bird feeding station. In time, these will become potential perches and nesting sites for our feathered friends.

Aromatic Mediterranean herbs accompany the olive tree in the central raised bed and bedding plants provide a pop of colour.

By adding lots of plants in pots, the homeowners have ensured a continuous supply of colour and interest.