The Nature of Change - A garden and woodland built in nature

A six‑acre garden designed around a dramatic 20‑metre slope, mature woodland, and a new Modernist home built into the landform. The design creates fluid connections between levels, introduces social spaces, a natural pool, and biodiverse low‑maintenance planting, all while retaining water on site and enhancing the feeling of being ‘built in nature’.

Design Approach
- Work with the natural contours to link the woodland, lower garden, and new house, creating areas of prospect and refuge inspired by the site’s original glacial stream.
- Reuse site‑sourced materials — stone, rubble, and timber — to reduce waste, add character, and create cohesive structures, habitats, and seating.
- Manage water sustainably through swales, landforms, and an organic natural pool that collects and retains rainwater for irrigation and circulation.
- Create a mosaic planting strategy that connects existing woodland, shrubs, meadows, and aquatic species, supporting biodiversity and seasonal interest.
- Prioritise wellbeing and accessibility with forest‑bathing routes, an upgraded accessible footpath, and thoughtful screening for privacy, supported by inclusive maintenance from the local college team.