The brief to replace an old terrace and retaining walls with spaces that worked for entertaining and relaxation, became the catalyst for connecting two areas that felt very separate. Wrapping a bold ‘S’ line around two sides of the house helped to provide cohesion. With the planting and topography each terrace area feels intimate, whilst offering views to other parts of the garden and countryside beyond.

• Choosing to grade the lawn to meet the terrace rather than rebuild one of the retaining walls reduced the hard landscaping and is one of the clients’ favourite aspects of the design.

• Healthy established shrubs and trees were retained.

• The clients report that the addition of new Mediterranean -inspired planting is attracting more beneficial insects.

• Planting in gravel promotes good drainage at the house wall and reduces weeding.