Overview

‘A simple solution to a small urban garden – virtually maintenance-free but a great space to use all year-round.’

Richard, Spruce & Bloom

Client

Our client was not ashamed to admit that she disliked gardening. She did however love the outdoors (thinking nothing of running 150 miles through the Sahara desert). Tired of looking out at concrete and weeds, we were asked to create a low-maintenance space for her to enjoy. The brief was to include some planting albeit a few statement pieces, together with a nice surface to walk upon. The north facing garden was no sun-trap, but benefited from a few hours of sunshine in the morning and evening – perfect for lazy Sunday breakfasts and early evening drinks. 

Specification

As is often the way in London, there was no side access in to the garden area, and Sue was not keen on us traipsing tonnes of concrete through the house. Therefore decking was chosen as the obvious solution; this can usually be laid directly on top of concrete or any existing surface (provided there is sufficient height up to door sills etc.) Sustainably-sourced Scot pine boards were specified. These are very cost-effective and will last up to 15 years when installed correctly. A main seating area was created with small beds for planting either side. The side return was also given the decking treatment and meant that the kitchen floor was at the same height as garden; providing a smooth transition from indoors to out.

Multi-stemmed bamboo plants were added to one side of the space, together with a statement Japanese maple tree. It was decided to balance these with pots for annual plants which were added later on in the project. Existing climbing ivy, clematis and ceanothus were trimmed lightly, maintaining the privacy and giving the garden an immediately established feel. The two planted areas were then covered with a thick weed-suppressant membrane, and finished with tumbled Scottish pebbles.

Completed within a week, our client was delighted with the rapid transformation.

Client comment

"Spruce and Bloom did an excellent job, at a reasonable rate, including cleaning up and disposing of the waste. They are professional and punctual and I would highly recommend them."

Sue Jones