Low Maintenance Exotic Garden in Parsons Green
The owners of this property in Parsons Green were in the process of refurbishing their kitchen at garden level when they decided to redesign their outdoor space. Newly installed bifold doors open up onto the courtyard which becomes an extension to the kitchen in a seamless transition.
The outdoor area provides an attractive view from the kitchen all year round.
As both of the owners work full time, a low maintenance garden was essential. Maximising the space available for entertaining, reading and relaxing was also requested.
The outdoor space has been designed as an extension to the kitchen rather than a separate area.
The cantilevered bench made of boards from Millboard extends the floating bench built in the kitchen. It is wide enough to sit comfortably in front of the raised bed which is used as a banquette.
Thus, the external space operates as an additional living space as soon as the weather allows.
Large grey porcelain tiles in the kitchen are carried through to the outdoor space to blur the boundary between inside and out.
The dark grey rendered walls create a dramatic backdrop to the light green foliage of the plants.
Low Maintenance planting
The owners wanted an exotic Mediterranean garden. Having Agaves would remind them of their last summer vacation in South of France.
Hence, these drought tolerant plants became the limiting factor as they could only be planted in very well drained soil and combined with arids such as Yucca rostrata. The variegated Agaves in front of the grey walls are beautifully highlighted.
Euphorbia chamaerops var Wulfenii planted at the back softens the spiky texture of the higher planter, while Phoenix canariensis brings the height necessary to hide the awkward corner of the space.
The lower planter brings contrast with the coarse round leaves of the Bergenias and the evergreen grey green leaves of the Melianthus major.
Lighting
Spike lights highlight the striking palms trees ans agaves at night, while LED strips under the bench bring depth.
An outdoor heater has also been fitted to extend the time spent outside.