When we start a garden design process we will take inspiration from you, your experiences and lifestyle, as well as from the genius loci, the spirit of a place or the special atmosphere of your garden.

Understanding the genius loci of a site enables us to achieve a deeply meaningful, harmonious design and a place that will bring you joy and fulfilment.  

In  1731, the English poet Alexander Pope, who was also passionate about gardens, defined what is since a fundamental rule in garden design: 

'To build, to plant, whatever you intend,

To rear the Column, or the Arch to bend,

To swell the Terras, or to sink the Grot;

In all, let Nature never be forgot.

Consult the Genius of the Place in all,

That tells the Waters or to rise, or fall,

Or helps th' ambitious Hill the Heav'ns to scale,

Or scoops in circling Theatres the Vale,

Calls in the Country, catches opening Glades,

Joins willing Woods, and varies Shades from Shades,

Now breaks, or now directs, th' intending Lines;

Paints as you plant, and as you work, Designs.'

Bring it forward to your garden and we will start by observing the unique characteristics of your site – its location, the surrounding architecture, microclimate, soil, topography and existing flora and fauna. We will also consider the local history, culture and significance the place may hold.

It also involves thinking about the feelings and moods the place evokes. Is it rural or urban garden? Tranquil or vibrant? Rustic, modern or traditional? Do you feel protected or exposed? Using this to guide our design will ensure your garden won’t look ‘out of place’. In general, the best and more sustainable garden designs will always be the ones which will embrace the local environment and feeling of the site, instead of going against them. 

Further inspiration may be gathered by looking beyond your garden boundaries, noting existing plant species, colours, textures and forms that resonates with your own space. 

Incorporating local materials is essential to create a sustainable garden. It is also fundamental to keep the garden centred. Stone, wood and other materials sourced from the local area to create structures like benches, pergolas, raised beds should resonate with the local environment. 

In the same way, the heritage of the place can be represented in traditional symbols and motifs used around the garden and thus elevate the sense of permanency and stewardship. 

By blending the inspiration drawn from the local environment, the essence of the place and your own experiences, we will create a garden that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful to you and all those who will enjoy it.