The Sanctuary Garden

The Sanctuary Garden was shaped as a restorative retreat for a client with an exceptionally demanding professional life. The brief centred on calm, privacy and immersion in nature – a place to slow down, breathe and reconnect with the quieter rhythms of the garden.

The design was intentionally understated and timeless, with the aim that it should feel settled and established rather than newly imposed. Warm-toned clay pavers gently weave through the space, encouraging a slower pace, while three striking Yorkstone rockery features anchor the garden. Their weathered surfaces, already softening with moss, bring a sense of age and belonging and help ground the design within its surroundings.

Sound played an important role in shaping the atmosphere. A sculptural steel water feature introduces a soft, bubbling murmur that brings movement and life to the garden while subtly masking the noise of the outside world. Seating has been carefully positioned throughout – from more open areas for conversation to a tucked-away nook designed for quiet reflection and solitude.

Planting has been layered to create enclosure, texture and year-round interest. At the heart of the garden stands a beautifully formed Acer, chosen for its sculptural shape and seasonal transformation, offering fresh spring growth and glowing autumn colour. Subtle low-voltage lighting allows the garden to be enjoyed into the evening, with gentle uplighting casting the tree’s form onto the gable end of the house and reflections dancing across the water.

A year on, the garden continues to be cared for by our maintenance team, allowing it to mature naturally and gracefully. As the garden has settled, it has become a space that is not only deeply calming but also quietly joyful – loved by adults, children and animals alike. It is a wonderful example of how thoughtful design can create a place of beauty and retreat – a garden truly designed for wellbeing.

From the client

“I love my new garden. Will and Sasha are absolute experts. The entire process was clearly explained and detailed attention paid to the brief. Upfront about costs and no hidden charges. The entire team were professional friendly and expert. The end result is a beautiful garden perfectly suited to my needs and I am thrilled. Thank you.”

Photos by Fraser-Cave Photography