Cottage Garden, Guildford

Cottage Garden, Guildford

This cottage garden in the sandy heaths of Albury was designed to sit comfortably within its beautiful farmland setting while keeping a classic English feel.

The new layout combines a good-sized sandstone terrace for family dining with smaller tucked-away areas surrounded by planting, giving the garden a balance of open and more private spaces. Flowerbeds were positioned around the house to frame the views and help bring the garden into the home.

Simple, natural materials were chosen. A sandstone terrace leads onto stepping stones set into shingle, which was also used for the snug area and driveway.

Curved fence panels help to screen the home office and provide a structure for climbers, giving this corner of the garden a softer edge.

Planting was particularly important to the clients. Together we introduced plants with personal meaning and plenty of scented varieties, especially around the snug seating area.

Taller planting and grasses create a sense of enclosure, while a feature Amelanchier provides spring blossom and vibrant autumn colour. Combined with a handful of evergreen and topiary pieces, the garden has structure and interest throughout the year while staying true to its cottage character.