This project began as part of a major renovation to a family home in Essex. The original property, built in warm yellow brick, had recently been extended using sleek black timber cladding. The garden design needed to bring these two contrasting architectural styles together in a way that felt natural, balanced and cohesive.

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The Brief

The aim was to develop a garden design that would complement the newly extended house, alongside a thoughtful planting design to create a calm and welcoming outdoor space. The materials palette needed to bridge the traditional character of the original building with the contemporary feel of the new extension.

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The Design

We worked closely with JKL Construction throughout the build to ensure the landscaping complemented the architectural vision. This collaborative approach helped ensure the garden and the house felt connected rather than designed separately.

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Material choices played an important role in achieving this balance. A soft, warm sandstone was selected for the rear patio, creating an inviting space for outdoor living. Grey clay pavers were then used for the front drive and pathways, helping to link the different areas of the property while working beautifully with both the brickwork and the darker tones of the extension.

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Planting

The existing planting in the rear garden already had a relaxed and natural rhythm. Rather than replacing it entirely, the planting design focused on enhancing what was already there while introducing soft transitions between the hard landscaping and the surrounding garden.

This approach helped bridge the clean architectural lines of the extension with the softer character of the planting.

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Outcome

The finished garden feels calm, cohesive and well connected to the architecture of the house. By carefully balancing materials, structure and planting, the design creates a welcoming outdoor space that complements both the traditional and contemporary elements of the property.