The client came to us because she was tired of a garden that felt untidy, overwhelming and lacked a clear sense of style. With little gardening experience, she wasn't sure where to begin; she simply wanted a space that felt calm, could be cared for independently, and would encourage her to develop her knowledge and confidence as a gardener.

The planting design was inspired by two of the client's favourite plants in the garden, Acer palmatum and Sambucus nigra. Their rich plum and deep purple foliage formed the foundation of the palette, contrasted with fresh matcha greens, cool blues and vibrant pops of orange to create depth, balance and seasonal interest.

The result is a garden that feels cohesive, manageable and restorative. Carefully selected plants provide interest throughout the year, while climbers will gradually soften and conceal the timber fencing, creating a greater sense of enclosure and transforming the space into a lush sanctuary.

To support the client beyond planting day, I also created a detailed seasonal aftercare guide, giving her the confidence to care for her new garden while continuing to learn and enjoy gardening. This ensures the planting can flourish and evolve beautifully over time.