The Fu Dog Garden

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One of the final drawings presented to the client.

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Details from the Garden.

The brief for this garden was to include set of Chinese temple lions or 'Fu Dogs' (a gift from the clients travels to China). The inspiration for the design came from the detail on the carvings and evolved to make use of the awkward shaped and narrow plot at one end. Requirements at the design stage were for a large seating area and provision for growing grape vines.

The combination of the patio area, house wall and sunny aspect has created a micro climate suitable for the grapevines. The original garden slope provided an opportunity for a level change and a small retaining wall was constructed with evenly spaced round timber poles and stainless steel mesh trellis for the grape vines. Materials for the project included, natural stone paving with an aluminium edge for a crisp contrast and Stainless steel mesh and bars for the pergola span. Quartzite gravel, sourced from a local quarry was used for the path. The Planting is predominantly evergreen with bamboos and phormiums for an exotic feel. Perennials include Echinacia and Miscanthus Zebrinas. Grasses intermingle whilst giving movement and sound in the breeze. Specimen trees such as Betula Utilis 'Jaquemontii' (silver Birch) has white bark and good autumn colour and Cratageus 'Pauls Scarlet' (Hawthorn) attracts birdlife.

At a later date an existing pergola was modified to include a living green roof and shelter for a swing seat. A second green roof spans the .narrow corner between the house and fence, with storage for bins and recycling etc. Both planted roofs have spring bulbs, and summer flowering grasses and alpines. They also provide a diversehabitat for birds and insects and help to slow storm water run off from the house roof