Seafront Garden, Kinghorn
SLOPING GARDEN WITH A VIEW
Designing a garden on a slope can be very challenging and completing this type of project very tricky, but the end result is often spectacular and creates a stunning outdoor environment.
For this seaside property, the brief was to design a functional garden where the clients could relax, entertain and enjoy the sea views. They were looking for interesting features and a planting scheme to cover the sloping parts of the garden.
Due to the difficult access and significant slope, we came up with a plan to minimise waste disposal. We also divided the back garden into three levels: The first was landscaped a few years ago, with paved patios and terraces, so we only added stairs leading to the second level. Two raised beds on each side were planted with perennials such as Agastache ‘Black Adder’, Alchemilla mollis, Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’, Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’, Phlomis russeliana, Vinca Minor and grasses like Calamagrostis × acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ also Calamagrostis brachyrticha and Festuca glauca Elijah Blue; The second level included raised Millboard composite decking, with a bespoke pergola and Corten steel/glass balustrades, that became a statement piece of the garden. The decking offered beautiful sea views and a perfect space to enjoy the sun and outdoor dining.
COASTAL PLANTING SCHEME
We filled the middle part of the garden with unique and beautiful varieties of plants (listed above), to add colour, height, softness and volume when established. We used a planting scheme that will create a unique ambience and compliment the rusty colour of the Corten Steel elements.
The third level was slightly elevated and included sections of stepping-stone walkways, set in gravel. We created another seating area, which was less exposed and more private due to the installation of batten fencing, a perfect protection from the strong coastal wind.
We installed three sections of Corten steel stairs and lighting in the garden, as requested, to add interest and warmth. These materials became an eye-catching feature of the garden and perfectly complemented its contemporary style.
Within the next year, we will return to this beautiful garden and will take more photos to show you how it has all come together.
