Design brief & vision
The challenge was to turn a difficult, sloping site into a usable and inviting outdoor space. The design vision was to create a garden that unfolds gradually, encouraging exploration while offering moments of calm. By layering the garden into distinct tiers, we introduced both practicality and beauty, with structural elements softened by abundant planting.
Key features
At the summit, a circular lawn framed by romantic borders establishes a calm opening scene. From there, the garden begins its descent, guided by floating composite steps that connect the levels with a light, modern touch. Tiered corten steel retaining walls provide structure and drama, their warm tones contrasting with the lush planting that spills over their edges. Further down, the garden reveals intimate seating areas and quiet corners for pause. A sheltered path beneath a series of timber archways creates rhythm and enclosure, drawing visitors deeper into the landscape. At the lowest tier, a bespoke granite-clad garden gym offers a secluded retreat for exercise and wellbeing, surrounded by greenery and privacy.
Planting scheme
The planting was designed to soften the garden's architectural lines while enhancing its sense of movement. Abundant perennials and shrubs spill over the corten steel walls, blending structure with softness. Borders are layered to provide colour and texture across the seasons, with romantic tones at the upper lawn and bolder combinations cascading through the descending tiers. The result is a garden that feels alive and dynamic, yet grounded in calm.
The result
This once-challenging sloped site has been reimagined as a multi-layered sanctuary, where structure and planting work in harmony. The garden encourages both activity and reflection, from working out in the granite-clad gym, to strolling beneath timber archways, or simply pausing at the lawn to enjoy the view. A space that unfolds like a story, it is a true showcase of contemporary tiered garden design in Sevenoaks.
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Like the look of this garden? Tell us about yours. Every project is led by the studio, from the first sketch to the standing garden, and cared for for the years that follow.