A Contemporary Courtyard in Manchester

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This scheme was for a young couple wanting a low maintenance out door space for relaxation and entertaining.

The area was quite small and did not justify having a lawn area but the clients are keen on a small artificial turf area as well as a raised deck.

 

A Garden on Two Levels

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The scheme became a garden on two levels. The Upper level was a composite deck featuring glass balustrade and LED deck lights to the perimeter. The clients wanted the deck to be the same height as the finished level of the floor inside the house, this meant introducing two steps down to the paved area which also features a small bench area which catches the early morning sun, ideal for coffee or breakfast out first thing in the morning

Although the scheme is very contemporary it was decided to keep the original Victorian brick walling because the contrast between modern sleek materials and the old brick was a dramatic feature. 

 

Planting Scheme

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The planting was mostly around the edge of the garden and in a raised bed. This was achieved by a cream-coloured rendered wall approximately 60 cm high which run around most of the garden.

The clients have inherited a mature Portuguese laurel and it was decided to keep this in order to create some screening off of the house opposite. Indeed it was so successful that we have added in three more of the same lspecies to complete the screen of the house and to increase privacy when in the garden.

Other planting features just a few varieties, mainly grasses, hydrangeas, lavender and fragrant Jasmine.

 

Garden lighting

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The lighting scheme within the garden was kept simple. About 10 LED up lighters around the perimeter and below the Glass Balustrade. In addition the edge of the deck was highlighted with a series of LED deck lights also on the step steps

In addition discreet LED strips were added to creating a floating effect  under the steps.

The last images shows the garden beforehand..... much in need of some TLC!

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