Family Garden, Streatham

Using a stretcher bond pattern with the paving we made he garden feel more spacious
Family Garden, Streatham
The brief for this project was to transform a long, narrow garden in Streatham into an open, light-filled family oasis.

By dividing the space into distinct, purposeful zones, we maximised every square cm of the plot. We utilised clever visual illusions, cost-effective weed management, and tailored landscaping elements to create a tranquil, multi-functional garden that feels both spacious and personal.

We used a light grey wood stain on the fence to bounce light across the narrow side passage. Bespoke, raised borders crafted from Scandinavian redwood and the garden shed were painted with Farrow & Ball ‘Off Black’ water based paint. The contrast in colour and structural shapes tricks the eye, making the garden feel much wider.

Play Zone
The side passage was transformed into a child-friendly haven, featuring a long runway perfect for racing scooters and toy cars. At the end of the run sits a hidden 'den' area, complete with a chalkboard and integrated chalk pots to spark imagination.

Entertaining Zone
The main dining terrace features Kandler grey riven sandstone laid in a stretcher bond pattern to visually elongate the space. Styled with comfortable, low-profile seating, it provides the perfect spot for entertaining friends while keeping a watchful eye on the children.

Low-maintenance Scottish pebbles and weed membrane landscaping materials were used to combat persistent weed issues from the mature railway trees at the rear boundary. This keeps maintenance to a minimum while adding a crisp, clean texture to the design.

The planting scheme was tailored to the client’s preference for rich lilacs and purples, includes Verbena bonariensis, Phormium 'Platts Black', and Erigeron. Two focal-point Olea europaea (Olive) trees and an Arbutus (Strawberry tree) planted in lightweight polystone planters add sophisticated height, shade, and architectural structure.

Focal Points Features —include an Easter Island Head sculpture and three sculptural stones, they were strategically placed to create beautiful viewpoints from both the kitchen and sitting room windows and the outdoor seating areas.

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