Garden design - Split Level Garden - Grade II Listed Georgian Town House, Sidmouth

A contemporary interpretation of Georgian geometry, this split level garden was carved out of a steeply sloping plot. The new levels provide a shady green retreat at basement level, leading via new steps to a sunny paved dining area above, defined by low walls and drought tolerant fragrant planting. A steel and timber bridge links the house to the upper terrace. The existing stone pavilion at the top of the garden was renovated and a fish-eye mirror hung on the back wall. As the middle belt of planting matures, the slightly wonky geometry of the pavilion will be masked and series of distinct, contained and easily maintainable garden spaces will emerge.

Design triggers - historic building, seaside location, mature apple tree, reflected light, the framed sky, open and closed space.