‘Frederic immediately intuited our requirements. His knowledge of Italian architecture, culture and garden history has informed his work. We are overjoyed with his elegant interpretation of the formal Italian garden.’ PDL

A striking, architect-designed country villa on the edge of the Val d’Orcia.  The architect based his work on Palladian principles of proportion.  These were cleverly contrasted by using vernacular building materials.  We were asked to create a complementary concept design and masterplan from which to work up detailed layouts zone by zone. 

We began with the gardens either side of the main house and the connecting panoramic terrace.  In the spirit of Italian Renaissance landscaping, we created a secluded garden of evergreens between the villa and the guest annex. The Italian Garden is a sociable space, a combination of secluded walkways, floriferous borders and seating areas.  We used local materials, sourced local stone and commissioned bespoke terracotta pavers to complement the house.

Steps lead down from the various terraces, through a double hedge and borders that frame the lawn.  Vistas are terminated by Cupressus sempervirens. Views across the valley are framed by clusters of small, ornamental trees that also create shady canopies.  The local stone copings and steps set off the terraces’ bespoke pavers. This pattern will be replicated throughout the garden.  The planting scheme of drought-tolerant plants adds colour. Ornamental grasses recall the surrounding countryside and introduce a more contemporary note. 

The formal pedestrian approach to the property, an imposing stone staircase -which doubles up as a meeting place- has recently been completed along with the swimming pool.