North London – Small Garden with Naturalistic Planting

Client brief
The client wanted to introduce a subtle cottage garden feel without making the space look overly informal or crowded. Functionality and structure were important, together with year-round interest and a garden that would remain easy to maintain and control. As a semi-advanced gardener, the client wanted planting with character while avoiding a scheme that would quickly become overwhelming.

Design approach
The design combines a contemporary layout with selected cottage-style elements in a more organised and controlled way. Warm Raj Green sandstone was chosen to create a welcoming and softer feel, while the circular brick patio introduces a traditional cottage influence and acts as a focal seating space.

A previously selected 2.5m x 4m summer house was incorporated into the rear of the garden and integrated into the overall layout rather than treated as a separate feature.

The circular lawn helps break up the softer cottage-style planting and introduces a cleaner, more modern form to the space. Trees were positioned as focal points and layered with planting designed to provide structure and seasonal interest throughout the year.

The result is a garden that balances practicality with cottage character — structured and organised, without losing warmth or personality.