Design Brief
The clients liked to socialise and entertain, usually with small gatherings up to 6 people, but on occasion would host an annual summer event for a larger gathering. Neither were keen gardeners, but were willing to hire someone. They wanted to enjoy the garden as an extension to their home. Having hired a personal trainer, they were also fitness focussed.

The Solution
As the garden was on a slope, a series of steps and pathways lead the visitor in, giving them an overview of the garden and creating a sense of intrigue as to what may lay around the corner. This then leads to a levelled grass area with plank paving where there is then a choice of either continuing down another path to further explore the garden or to perhaps choose the path that leads them to a welcoming cocktail at the wet bar. This area adjoined a BBQ and is undercover to ensure that it could be utilised in all weathers. There is an option to either sit at the bar or make use of the outdoor seating area by the lap pool. For chillier evenings, the low-level table at the seating area can transform into a fire pit.

The lap pool makes use of the change in level and provides an infinity type view from the upper area. It has a glass front which allows the visitor to view guests making use of the pool.

There is also a separate raised herb and vegetable area on this level, which allows for ease of access from the BBQ area should any items be required from it.

The next level down is accessed via steps. These lead away from the more formal area to a curved path which gently slopes down around a grassed area. Again, there is a choice as to whether to continue along this path or down a set of curved steps either to a seating area which looks toward the lap pool or to another lower level which has a curved expanse of water. If the latter is chosen, they can journey along the grass area to the stepping stones that can take them over to another seating/relaxing area. If they are feeling energetic perhaps a walk to the gym studio may take their fancy.

The shape of the water feature mirrors the raised pathway on the other side of the garden. A sense of movement is created with a water chute raised above the water feature at one end.