Contemporary Garden Design to Attract Wildlife

Our client, residing near the Kent coast, envisioned a garden that would serve as a haven for wildlife while boasting a contemporary design that made a bold statement. Inspired by her global travels and professional background as a ballet dancer, she sought a garden that reflected her diverse experiences and provided a practical yet visually stunning outdoor space.

Garden Elements:

• Timber decking 
• Wall Installation
• Stabilised Gravel
• Water Features

The Challenge Ahead

Combining contemporary design elements with wildlife-friendly features posed a unique challenge. The garden needed to attract wildlife while maintaining a sense of sophistication and manageability. Our task was to create a space that not only embraced nature but also paid homage to the client's personal history and interests.

Garden Design Brief

Drawing on influences from the client's childhood in California, travels to Japan, and professional ballet career, the garden was to be a reflection of her life's journey. Key features included a pond with a screened sitting area, timber decking reminiscent of her California home and a Yatsuhashi-style bridge inspired by her time in Japan.

Haywood Landscape’s Approach

Incorporating elements of theatre and seasonal dynamics, we designed curved screen walls finished in brilliant white paint to provide a striking backdrop for the delicate planting. These walls, along with gravel and grass pathways, offered ever-changing views as the seasons progressed, enhancing the visual experience for the client.

To balance functionality with wildlife attraction, we installed bug walls to accommodate beetles and a pond provided a habitat for newts. Stabilised gravel pathways ensured durability while maintaining a natural aesthetic, allowing both humans and animals to traverse the space comfortably.

The Results

The resulting garden defied stereotypes, offering a harmonious blend of contemporary design and wildlife habitat. From productive vegetable patches to tranquil seating areas, every aspect of the garden served a dual purpose, enriching both human and animal experiences (our client introduced chickens to the garden!).

The garden's allure extended beyond its practicality, becoming an inspirational setting for Alan Titchmarsh's 'Love Your Garden' series on ITV. Its serene ambiance and thoughtful design elements provided a source of inspiration for future projects, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and viewers alike.