Tucked into the quiet edges of a coastal village, this garden draws its character from both land and sea. Built in close collaboration with a garden designer, the layout takes cues from the surrounding maritime landscape — not through overt symbolism, but through material language, proportion, and rhythm. The result is a space that feels deeply rooted in place, layered with crafted detail and coastal ease.
The garden unfolds across a sequence of raised levels, each one carefully formed to provide structure, movement, and flow. Two generous hardwood decks, constructed in warm-toned Balau, step out from the house to define the key terraces. These timber platforms divide the garden naturally into zones — for dining, for entertaining, for quiet retreat — while also softening the transition between house and lawn.
Stone and steel are used throughout to anchor the design with clarity. Cool-toned limestone, laid in a coursed pattern to match existing terraces, runs through the main paved areas. It sits in striking contrast to the Corten edging and planters, whose rich, weathered patina gives the garden a bold, architectural edge. The Corten also appears as a raised water feature, positioned not centrally, but with intent — a sculptural moment that gently invites attention without dominating the space. Its surface glimmers with movement, echoing the sea beyond the garden walls.
Framing the space is a Siberian Larch pergola, its smooth timbers set deep into the ground to provide permanence and scale. The pergola structure is balanced by vertical cedar screens along the boundary — slatted and factory-finished in black to offer both privacy and elegance. The lines of the timber echo the surrounding architecture while allowing light and air to pass freely, giving the space a sense of openness without exposure.
Planting was approached with a relaxed, coastal character in mind. Beds were formed using a well-draining mix of prepared topsoil and ornamental mulch, supporting species that thrive in this climate — sea thrift, lavender, rosemary, grasses and herbs, each adding movement, scent and seasonality. A wildflower meadow wraps around the edges of the lawn, offering a gentle fade into the softer perimeter.
Throughout the garden, smaller crafted details emerge — bee posts stand quietly within the planting; a bronze water bowl reflects the sky; and a willow hide, provided by the client, offers a playful escape for younger visitors. An outdoor fireplace provides a central gathering point on cooler evenings, anchoring the garden with warmth and light.
This is a garden that balances texture and tone, openness and enclosure. Every material has been chosen for its ability to age gracefully, every line set with care. Though modest in size, the space holds richness in structure and softness in spirit — a coastal retreat shaped for living well, in rhythm with its surroundings.