
ristina bergamin
garden design
COURTYARD GARDEN
ST ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE












The entrance to the garden was through an unkempt communal path serving the ground and top floor flats in a converted Victorian house. The sloping, narrow garden alongside the ground floor flat featured a beech hedge on the boundary, a lawn and some shrubs.
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The brief was to completely re-design the space, eliminate the lawn, include an appealing entrance to the flats with an easy-to-maintain garden featuring clean lines, accessible beds, and a quiet seating area in the sunniest part, screened from the communal path. Also conceal a large manhole near the front door and include bin storage in the communal area.
The site topography was suitable to create a terraced layout with easy access to the raised beds and a seating area at the top. Nearer to the front door, the ample gravelled area in the sun is now a space to relax and entertain. The unsightly manhole was turned into a feature with architectural planting and pebbles, while maintaining easy access.
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Simple lines and materials, colour and planting repetitions turned this courtyard garden into a tranquil and relaxing outdoor space.

