This was a site with a lot of potential! Originally a very plain, large lawn area with no excitement in the space, the clients wanted a dramatic new look involving the elements of water, timber, stone and plant material.

A bold concept was needed. We decided to dissect the space with a large, naturalistic wildlife pond crossed by a timber bridge. The section shown here is part of the long, serpentine pathway that links the main house with the summerhouse at the far end of the garden. The shape formed by the sleeper pathway is dramatic yet flowing and harmonious and leads the walker on.

The banks of the large pond were clad with pebbles and marginal aquatic plants.

The pond is about three foot deep in the middle, to ensure that it doesn’t freeze completely in winter. We were able to spread the topsoil from the area over the rest of the garden. Since this garden is near the coast, we removed a lot of sand.

A large filter system was added with a waterfall at one end of the pond to help keep the water clear and free of algae.

This photograph enables you to see the lines of the newly constructed area. Just six months later, the aquatic plants had grown enough to provide quite a mature look. You can see the result in the next photograph in the series.