The Brief
Set in a stunning location with spectacular views overlooking the Yealm estuary in South Devon, this impressive house is also surrounded by ancient protected woodland, which was instrumental in its refurbishment. The idyllic property underwent an extensive renovation both inside and out. Landscape and design company Urban Earth in conjunction with garden designer Christine Wilford from GreenArden Design were engaged to connect the house with the surrounding woodland and create a generous garden that linked sensitively with its setting, providing different spaces for the family to relax and socialise in. Another key requirement was providing a greater sense of arrival at the front of the property with an extensive sweeping driveway and a generous parking area.
The house’s location determined the materials chosen for the hardscaping. A permeable resin bound system was selected for the driveway because of its durability and aesthetics, while a cellular concrete paving system with grass was chosen for the parking in front of the new wooden garage, with a grey cobble stone paved area for parking closer to the house.
The Project
The house’s location determined the materials chosen for the hardscaping. A permeable resin bound system was selected for the driveway because of its durability and aesthetics, while a cellular concrete paving system with grass was chosen for the parking in front of the new wooden garage, with a grey cobble stone paved area for parking closer to the house.
The entrance to the house is through a small courtyard, which was specially designed to enhance the privacy, while the planting and materials used in the courtyard were chosen to create interest. Red clay pavers were laid in a herringbone pattern on the path and steps leading to the front door, as well as the pathway to the rear of the house. Raised corten steel planters in a complementary colour were placed along one of the walls to inject height and allow for plants at differing levels within the small space. Gravel beds next to the entrance path were planted with perennials, ornamental grasses and ferns to enhance the verdant aesthetic.
The garden consists of different spaces around the house that relate to either living rooms or bedrooms. They are connected with pathways and terraces that use a combination of Artisans of Devizes grey Kimmeridge limestone, red clay paver, grey sets and small pebble stones to introduce visual interest and elevate the ambience. The garden faces the river and has spectacular views so planting was kept at low and mid levels to keep the view open towards the river and not obstruct it, and a diverse range of perennials, grasses and shrubs were planted.
The pièce de résistance has to be the large terrace that runs along the length of the living room, which is paved with Kimmeridge limestone with a tumbled and edged finish. From its raised position, the terrace enjoys spectacular views over the river, and chic garden furniture is positioned here so as to enjoy the panorama and the diverse range of perennials, grasses and shrubs.
‘Kimmeridge limestone provided the ideal product as a paving material due to its naturalistic feel, blending in with the landscape, reflecting the sky and sea,’ explains Christine Wilford. ‘The stone needed to complement two additional paving materials in the garden as well, which was a perfect fit due to its neutral greys. The size of the pavers laid in lines provided a contemporary touch to the paving areas in line with the interior of the house.’
Credits:
Project by Urban Earth & GreenArden Design