Landscape architecture by Stefano Marinaz Landscape Architecture.
In the heart of Buckinghamshire, a professional couple with two children found their property in need of a transformation. What once served primarily as a functional car park and a bland side garden was reimagined into a verdant haven, providing both beauty and utility. The project, lead by Stefano Marinaz Landscape Architecture, highlights the power of thoughtful design in turning ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary landscapes.
The Brief
The homeowners, who were very open to direction on the design of their property, wanted a landscape that would replace the visual clutter of parked cars and uninspiring garden spaces with vibrant greenery and inviting pathways.
The primary focus was on transforming the front courtyard, visible from the kitchen, into a lush garden that would enhance the daily experience of looking out from the home. Additionally, the couple wanted to revitalise the side garden, which served as the main access point to a woodland at the rear of the property.
The goal was to create a clear distinction between the front and rear gardens while harmoniously linking the indoors and outdoors, particularly complementing a new black extension to the house.
The Transformation
The project unfolded through a four-step design process, each stage contributing to the overall transformation.
1. Car park relocation: The first major change involved relocating the car park approximately 10 metres away from the house. This move freed up space for a new front garden, paving the way for an area rich in plant life.
2. Courtyard creation: The newly available space was transformed into a courtyard inspired by Japanese garden aesthetics.
To bridge the visual gap between the existing house and the new extension, pleached crab apple trees were introduced, offering both a balanced appearance and a sense of privacy.
Beneath these trees, confusa was planted to provide lower-level screening and a refreshing winter scent, ensuring the garden’s appeal throughout the year.
3. Pathway design: A York Stone pathway was designed to lead from the relocated car park, through a wildflower meadow, and into the courtyard. Flanked by perennial beds, this pathway elegantly guides visitors to the new front door, framing the courtyard and enhancing the journey from the outside world to the home.
4. Side garden transformation: The final stage focused on the side garden, where the straight fence was replaced with wave-clipped hedges. This area now features a wildflower meadow and a meandering path, creating a gentle screening effect and inviting exploration. The new design not only provides a transition zone between the front and rear gardens but also draws both children and adults into the enchanting woodland beyond.
The Result
The once plain and functional spaces have been transformed into a captivating entryway and an enchanting garden that encourage discovery and playfulness. The front garden now serves as a beautiful and welcoming space, drawing visitors and family members to pause and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Meanwhile, the redesigned side garden offers effective screening and a seamless transition between the different outdoor areas.
This landscaping project has truly elevated the property, blending practicality with aesthetic appeal to create a space that delights at every turn. The homeowners now enjoy a garden that complements their home and enhances their connection to nature, making every approach to the front door a journey through beauty.
Key Planting List
Bulbs
- Allium atropurpureum
- Allium nigrum
- Lilium martagon ‘Album’
- Tulipa Purissima ‘White Emperor’
- Tulipa ‘Queen of Night’
Perennials
- Astrantia major ‘Shaggy’
- Actaea simplex ‘Atropurpurea’
- Iris chrysographes ‘Black’
- Thalictrum delavayi ‘Album’
- Astrantia major ‘Claret’
- Gillenia trifoliata
- Aster divaricatus
- Viola labradorica ‘Purpurea’
- Geranium phaeum ‘Samobor’
- Cyclamen hederifolium ‘Album’
Grasses
- Hakonechloa macra
- Molinia caerulea subsp. arundinacea ‘Transparent’
Shrubs
- Rosa glauca
- Paeonia delavayi
- Hydrangea quercifolia
- Sarcococca confusa
Trees
- Malus sylvestris [Pleached crab apple trees]
Landscape architecture by Stefano Marinaz Landscape Architecture.
Architecture for house extension by Paolo Cossu Architects and Bertolini Architects
Photography by Stefano Marinaz and Rosangela Photography
