NIGHTINGALE

Urban Fresh

BRIEF

Our clients were carrying out a total refurbishment and extension of a detached property in the nightingale triangle. The existing garden was partially raised and although not overlooked, the garden needed planting that would provide a softening to some neighbouring properties. The kitchen extension was designed with lots of glazing and it creating a seamless flow between the interior and exterior spaces was critical whilst managing the change in levels without losing a feeling of spaciousness.

SOLUTION

The exterior finish to the property is a bold dark brick and interior finishes included concrete, marble and accent colours of dark clay. The ‘Floating corner’ of glass and expansive views of the garden meant that getting the flow between inside and out was absolutely critical to the execution of the garden design. We chose bold materials including Corten steel for edging the changes in level to allow some of the interior design palette to pick out on views through the kitchen but also to keep the retainers as slim and contemporary as possible so that changes in height were aesthetically minimal or became a subtle feature of the design on the right side of the garden. Pre-cast concrete was used to create floating steps and an oversize capping to the left of the garden where this can also act as overflow ‘perching’ seating for larger gatherings and parties.
The garden design subtly breaks up the garden with transparent planting to provide an outdoor kitchen dining area, lounge area and sunbathing deck plus lawn area for the dog to enjoy.

OUTCOME

The garden is a harmonious blend of modern materials and more traditional english garden plants that provide colour and scent throughout the year. The level changes act as a strong feature of the garden design without dominating the space and the garden provides a stunning addition to this beautiful family home from the inside at all levels from the basement gym to the top floor master bedroom suite.