oxfordshire farm house

This quarter acre garden was designed to support relaxed family life. The brief asked for a big lawn for grandchildren to run around on, bold planting for seasonal interest, a clear route from the parking area to the front door, productive spots for growing vegetables and cut flowers, as well as screening from neighbouring property over the lane.

The layout brings in height and structure to gently break up the space and create a natural flow through the garden. An old dry stone wall animal pen, tucked into a sunny corner was reimagined as a gravel seating area planted with herbs to thrive in this sun trap.

To match the character of the old farmhouse, we kept the lines soft and avoided anything too formal. Planting beds with staggered broken edges around the house keeps things feeling loose and relaxed, while established topiary adds contrast and structure alongside a mix of light, textural perennials.

Reclaimed materials help tie the garden to its setting, a weathered stone sink under the outdoor tap, a bird bath half emerging in the planting and two old saddle stones set into the path all bring a sense of age and personality to the space.