This garden in Reading, Berkshire is desperately
in need of a makeover. The client loves
Japanese style gardens, so I created a garden design scheme that
makes good use of the space in a simple, elegant way with a Japanese flavour.
Reading Garden - Before
Reading Garden - Before
Reading Garden - Before
The requirements were a large dining area in the sunniest spot in the garden, a Japanese courtyard, spaces for the client to display his Bonsai collection, and an area with a pathway through trees.
Garden Design Reading - Master Plan
The scheme uses simple geometric shapes to
give the garden symmetry. The garden design makes use of the whole garden, enclosing the house and making the garden feel more
private.
Garden Design Reading - Aerial View 1
A large terrace
with a pergola provides height, interest, a sense of enclosure and privacy. A
paved walkway with arches leads from the dining area creating interest,
encouraging exploration and providing a natural journey
around the garden. On one side of the pathway is a raised area for
displaying the client’s
Bonsai collection. The pathway leads into a part covered
Japanese style courtyard with a tiled roof, seat, and a planting area
with a water basin. This area is perfect for quiet contemplation and
also gives the garden a sense of cohesion, greater space and privacy
from the outside world.
Garden Design Reading - view of woodland walkway
Japanese elements such as lanterns and water rocks are used as
focal points throughout the garden. A
stepping stone path curves through the trees to one side of the front garden
and around the side of the house. The
path is broken by a dry, rock stream bed traversed by a wooden bridge, it then
continues along the side of the house to give purpose and interest to an
otherwise dead area of the garden.
Garden Design Reading - Aerial View 2
Slatted screens are used around the garden to disguise sheds
and cover up any old fencing that is not being replaced. These baton screens serve as backdrops, but
also help update the garden and give it a Japanese flavour.
Garden Design Reading - view of Japanese courtyard and woodland walkway
All the practical requirements have been addressed, but
within a Japanese aesthetic. The garden
has a taste of Japan without resorting to pastiche. The client is delighted and
can’t wait to get the garden built.
If you would like help designing your perfect garden, please contact me
by visiting my Web site for contact details, or email me.
