Pond Cottage
Tucked away in a remarkably private setting, Pond Cottage sits within a garden dominated by water — a striking pond that spans nearly a third of the site. Surrounded on all sides by the energy of road, rail, and residential boundaries, this garden offers a peaceful retreat from its busy surroundings.
The design was centred around enhancing the garden’s naturalistic setting while introducing thoughtful interventions to support both beauty and function. A key priority was to create an elegant, sheltered entertaining space overlooking the pond, seamlessly linked to the kitchen to allow for easy family dining. Morning coffee spots were strategically located to catch the early light, and beautiful sightlines were established from the main windows, drawing the eye out across the water and planting.
To improve the ecological health of the pond, the project included the de-silting of a southeastern culvert, allowing for better water flow and long-term vitality of the aquatic environment.
One of the most exciting aspects of the design was the gentle sculpting of the land to create distinct microclimates and varied aspects. These subtle shifts in topography provide sheltered pockets, sun-drenched slopes, and moisture-retentive hollows — each offering a unique planting environment. This allowed for an expanded palette of plants, increasing biodiversity and seasonal interest throughout the site.
A network of boardwalks, bridges and permeable paths allows access year-round, even in the wettest weather, without compromising the soft, sodden ground. The client – a talented landscaper – will construct much of the garden, giving them the opportunity to explore the full potential of the site without constraints.
Additional features include a productive greenhouse area, wildlife-friendly planting and a sympathetic palette of materials that sit quietly within the landscape. This garden is a celebration of nature, water, and the quiet joy of immersion in a private, deeply personal outdoor space.
