This garden project began as an extension of a newly built addition to a charming Cotswold cottage. The steep, sloping site offered stunning views but presented significant challenges—limited usable space, little privacy, and a disconnect between the house and garden. From inside the home, the garden was almost entirely out of sight, hidden behind high retaining walls.
The brief was to create a stronger connection between the house and its surroundings—introducing flowing pathways, planting around seating areas, and improving the overall sense of cohesion. Privacy was a key consideration, with green screening and clearly defined spaces helping to establish a more secluded, usable rear garden, distinct from the front. Creating more level areas was also essential to make the space practical, inviting, and enjoyable throughout.
Materials were carefully chosen, in collaboration with the architect, to reflect the character of the local area, complementing the traditional charm of the cottage and helping the new garden feel grounded in its Cotswold setting. Discreet garden lighting was also incorporated to gently illuminate key areas while being mindful of neighbouring properties and local wildlife, preserving the calm, rural atmosphere after dark.
We had the pleasure of collaborating closely with Rixon Architects, who designed the extension, ensuring the garden design complemented and enhanced the new architecture.
Photography: Adam Carter
More photos of the garden to follow soon.
