Enveloped in ancient stone walls, sunny & triangular, this sculptural courtyard garden in Dorset on the English south coast is an architectural haven. Designed for our clients’ country home, we created rich detail with sandstone slabs and contrasting geometry, punctuated by Mediterranean plants & abstract art.
25 steps lead down to the subterranean courtyard, proceeding via sandstone treads which float above shadow gaps. A majestic Cycad demarcates the entrance, draped by a Butia palm in a masonry frame with curved edges, softened by grasses and featuring ethnic sculpture within this aperture.
Agave, Lavender and succulents flourish in this sun-drenched courtyard, where a tall Cordyline palm merges the courtyard into the upper views of the house, with a Mexican Sotol beneath. 3 seating areas are positioned near the Cycad, by the bay walls and as a wooden bench below the Cordyline.
2 types of smooth sandstone were selected: light grey and marbled brown, linking to the existing masonry, contrasted by 2 light mauve colours on the rendered walls. Raised beds and ground borders intermix to create dry zones for the exotic flora, augmented by pewter ceramic vases.