This landscape design was one of my absolute favourites to work on - the kind of project that reminds you how transformative good design can be, especially when it responds to the natural beauty already present. From the outset, I was drawn to the site. It was surrounded by mature trees, which is always such a bonus - offering instant structure, shade, and a sense of place that often takes years to develop. Even better, the property overlooked a golf course, providing a stunning, uninterrupted green backdrop that brought a real feeling of space and serenity to the garden.

One of the standout features of this project was the established garden already in place. The clients had clearly invested in creating something beautiful over the years, and it was really important to me that the new design elements matched and complemented what was already thriving. The last thing I wanted to do was impose something that clashed with the existing planting - instead, I worked with it, carefully selecting materials, textures, and plant species that sat naturally alongside what was already there.

Despite these strengths, the layout had a significant issue - a major disconnect between the patio and the pool area. It wasn’t just inconvenient; it was becoming unsafe for the clients’ young grandchildren, who regularly used the space. The disconnection was due to a mix of factors: awkward orientation (the patio faced northwest while the pool was tucked away to the northeast), a narrow transition point between the areas, and fencing that broke the visual and functional flow.

The solution came from softening that transition. By widening the steps that connected the patio to the pool, we did more than improve access - we completely shifted the energy of the space. The broad steps created a sense of harmony between the zones and also acted as informal seating, where the family could relax and watch the kids swim, or enjoy a moment in the sun.

We also introduced frameless glass fencing around the pool. It provided the necessary safety without compromising the beautiful views across the garden and to the golf course beyond. The transparency kept the outlook open and visually light, maintaining that all-important connection between spaces.