This large, walled garden was once part of an estate in the historic village of Dunwich.  Our clients sensitively restored the gardener’s cottage, creating a beautiful Arts & Crafts home with contemporary accents. We were asked to design a formal garden to complement the property’s aesthetic.  Using local materials, we devised a series of open garden rooms -some of which are yet to be installed- and a central, circular lawn. 

Curiously, the previous owners had planted an allée of Hornbeams in an off-centre position.  Though handsome, it had to go.  The allée was professionally lifted and divided to create four pleached pagodas.  These will eventually be traversed by secondary garden paths.

The main axis departs from a set of shallow limestone steps, leading up into the garden from the generous terrace.  To the left of the terrace, the formal flower garden has been installed.  Gravel pathways intersect with brick pavers and reclaimed tile details.  Evergreen blocks positioned to offset planting and direct the eye add a contemporary note to the planting.  A long dahlia border leads to the restored pineapple house. 

The site of the old pineapple house has been used to create a simple box section steel pergola: shade provided by climbers. A limewash render was applied to the rear wall and painted a warm ochre.  A narrow water tank reflects the Suffolk sky.  Planting here takes full advantage of the South-facing wall. 

Phase Two: perennial borders, ornamental grass plantations and potager.