COBHAM GARDEN

This garden was designed for a retired couple who were renovating the rear of their home, including a new kitchen extension. Their existing patio layout wasn’t working, and they wanted a more contemporary outdoor space that
complemented the modern architecture of the house while maximising every inch of the garden.

A new, larger patio was created to form the main entertaining area, featuring a corten steel water feature as a striking focal point. Three rooftop-trained Carpinus betulus (hornbeam) trees were positioned to divide the dining and informal seating areas, offering natural shade and a sense of intimacy when dining outdoors.

A step leads up to the lawn, which is framed by mature trees and shrubs, creating a green, enclosed feel. The planting palette was kept simple and elegant, combining contrasting textures and tones — soft, flowing ornamental grasses and Nepeta underplanting beneath the trees bring long-season colour and movement. The pared-back approach allows the architecture and materials to shine, creating a calm, cohesive, and low-maintenance contemporary garden.