OLDHAM
The Brief
This project in Oldham began with a neglected, overlooked area at the rear of the house, visible directly from the kitchen window and offering little more than a dark, uninviting corner.
The client asked for something completely different: a view that felt magical and immersive, like a secret pocket of a grand forest. They wanted a scene that would draw the eye every day, creating a sense of calm, intrigue, and woodland charm.
The Design
To bring this vision to life, we focused on creating the illusion of depth and space within a relatively small, semi-shaded plot. We used naturalistic planting, layered height, and strategic sightlines to make the garden feel far larger than its footprint.
The design aimed to evoke a sense of discovery through soft foliage, filtered light, and subtle shifts in planting, all of which contributing to an atmosphere of mystery and enchantment.
Since character and authenticity were essential, we sourced reclaimed materials to introduce a sense of history and permanence. The standout discovery was a stone table with matching cube seats, unearthed in a reclamation yard, hidden under tools and machinery. Although they weren’t originally for sale, we secured them with the client’s approval, knowing they would become the centrepiece of the design. These sculptural pieces perfectly captured the woodland atmosphere we aimed to achieve.
The Garden
The finished garden is a charming, forest-inspired retreat that transports the viewer from kitchen to woodland with a single glance.
The reclaimed stone table forms the focal point, surrounded by lush layers of shade-loving planting that soften boundaries and deepen the sense of immersion. From the textures to the tones to the placement of each plant, every detail works together to create a quiet, contemplative corner that feels both intimate and otherworldly.
If you're looking to turn an overlooked area into something atmospheric, characterful and truly unique, get in touch today to begin your own garden transformation.