Stonehill Garden: A Look at Our Award-Winning Project

At this year's Pro Landscaper awards, Stonehill Garden clinched the £100,000-£250,000 category and won the Supreme winner title. This project demonstrates our ongoing commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly practices. By applying both new and proven techniques, we created a landscape that captivates while respecting the environment.

Here, we delve into how we collaborated with both the designer and the client to bring imaginative ideas to life.

The Vision Behind Stonehill Garden

The goal for Stonehill Garden involved creating a space that harmonises with its surroundings while showcasing innovative landscaping. The client desired a garden reflecting the warmth and charm of her homeland, one that connected with her roots like the Mediterranean gardens she cherishes, blending classic looks with practicality.

Key Features

Initially, the original two-level garden remained underutilised. The client sought to maximise these areas with special zones for privacy and gatherings. The plan incorporated an outdoor kitchen and dining space for gatherings all year round. An outdoor fireplace was also necessary for enjoyment in all seasons.

The back garden aimed to feel cosy, encouraging socialising and relaxing. She requested low-maintenance, yet vibrant Mediterranean-style plants and materials.

For the front garden, the objective involved creating a more welcoming entrance and boosting kerb appeal, transforming a functional space into an inviting area that complements the home's look.

Above all else, the design needed to capture the essence of home—a place for memories, relaxation, and connections with family and friends.

Overcoming Challenges

We encountered several challenges during planning and construction.

First, limited side access complicated the delivery of large items. We temporarily removed downpipes and carefully adjusted our strategy to bring in important materials like boulders and pavers without causing damage.

Building a block wall at the rear boundary presented challenges due to concerns from the neighbouring property. After discussions, we agreed the wall would be covered by a new fence on their side, maintaining good relations and adhering to the design vision.

Creating the hand-poured polished concrete kitchen worktop was challenging, especially with its custom curved design. Extensive off-site testing ensured the mix, polish, and formwork met perfection before the final on-site pour.

The Finished Project

Ultimately, the finished back garden emerged as a Mediterranean-inspired space, cosy and charming, reflecting the owner's personality. Stone wall features crafted from Silverland cropped Purbeck stone cladding add character.

A Corten steel water bowl offers calming sounds and attracts wildlife. Underfoot, a mix of Silverland stone gravel, terrazzo-style pavers, Vande Moortal clay pavers, and boulders establish a structured feel.

A highlight includes the custom outdoor kitchen and pergola. Special finishing gives walls an aged look, enabling them to blend into the landscape. The kitchen features a hand-poured polished concrete worktop, and the pergola's laser-cut roof was personally chosen by the client.

The planting centres around a Strawberry Tree for its sculptural form and seasonal interest. Thoughtful lighting keeps the garden welcoming after dark.

At the front, the Mediterranean theme with a modern twist continues. Dijon seasoned limestone paving, alongside boulders, a restored brick pier, and new railings, enhances the entrance. A custom bin storage area with shelving adds function and style.

We emphasised environmental care through material selection, focusing on natural stone, self-binding gravel, and low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants. The project embodies rhythm, rest, and outdoor living—a modern nod to Mediterranean gardens—and delivers a "wow" factor day and night.

Celebrating Success

The award for Stonehill Garden at the Pro Landscaper awards showcases what’s possible when passion, teamwork, and environmental responsibility converge. We proudly elevate it as a future project benchmark.

Looking Ahead

This award propels us to push the boundaries of landscaping. As we progress, Stonehill Garden remains a symbol of our commitment to creating enduring, beautiful spaces that contribute positively to the environment.

Get in touch for an informal chat about your dream garden :)