Maida Vale

Using strong architectural lines from the adjacent buildings, the brief for the garden was to create a simple and elegant design for entertaining. The garden was also to act as a link between the house and mews, with the sculpture, Search for Enlightenment by Simon Gudgeon, being the focal point of the garden. These beautiful bronze forms are backlit at night, while during the day, they make a striking contrast with the yew hedging behind. The multi-stem Carpinus Betulus (Hornbeam) trees frame the sculptures and give dappled shade to the stepping stone paths on each side of the lawn.

The dramatic steps and water cascade conceal the sub-structure of a swimming pool complex beneath the garden. The steps lead down to a large enclosed terrace; viewed from the kitchen through bifolding doors, this is the perfect place in which to relax and entertain.