Slad Farmhouse

Location: An imposing Cotswold farmhouse on a 1 acre sloped site within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The client: A family with two young children aged 7 and 9.

The brief: The clients were feeling overwhelmed with maintenance requirements which mainly comprised weeding. Hard landscaping needed to be re-laid to prevent weed growth alongside easy to care for planting with plenty of scent.

Overall design intent: The design of the garden needed to match the stature of the house - a 3 storey dwelling built from the wealth of the wool trade around 100 years ago. A strong structure of trees and Fagus sylvatica hedging provides presence throughout the year.

Dining terrace & vegetable garden: An existing Acer has been underplanted with Hakonechloa macra and surrounds an enlarged dining area for entertaining family and friends. The vegetable garden is nearby, perfectly situated to pick and eat fresh produce.

Lawn & treehouse: The lawn area has been reduced and is enclosed by hedging and loose planting of ornamental grasses and perennials, whilst a tree house built into a mature Sycamore is a fun hideout for the children to play.

Trampoline and fire pit: The trampoline has been sunken into the ground and surrounded with planting. A fire pit area at the bottom of the garden is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset and views across the valley.

Images below show the master layout plan, a sample planting plan and concept mood board.