
BALI Awards Winner 2024
Domestic Garden Construction – Between £100k – £250k

BALI Awards Winner 2024
Domestic Garden Construction – Between £100k – £250k
Tel: 01452 770273 • Email: office@graduategardeners.co.uk
Award Winner
Domestic Garden Construction – Between £100k – £250k
A private garden in West Oxfordshire
Designer: Ian Morrison
Our work on this garden revolved around revitalising the space around an existing pool, maintaining the character established years ago while incorporating modern elements.
The key challenge was to introduce new features that would enhance both usability and aesthetics without compromising the established layout that the clients valued.
Galleries
Pool Area Transformation
The centrepiece of the design was the refurbishment around the existing swimming pool. Millboard decking was chosen for its durability and low maintenance, expanding on the original footprint to accommodate a covered sitting area. This new space, affectionately named ‘The Shack,’ was designed to create a relaxing retreat that worked harmoniously with the mature Buxus cubes and planted squares, retaining the distinctive structure of the previous garden.
The paved terrace was another focal area of transformation. We replaced the ageing Indian sandstone with modern porcelain paving, achieving a clean and contemporary look that beautifully complemented the fresh lines of the new decking. This updated paving linked seamlessly with the pool area and the covered sitting space, creating a cohesive and modern outdoor environment.
The covered sitting area itself was designed by an architect and constructed by a local builder familiar to the clients. While the structure was built by the local team, the paving within it was laid by our team to ensure consistency in quality and style. The pool house, also designed and built by the local builder, further added to the garden’s functional aspects, providing both storage and a convenient space for poolside living.
Wildflower Area and Overall Design
Towards the end of the main phase of work, we turned our attention to the wildflower area. Although it had been attempted previously, we refined the approach to ensure that this section of the garden would thrive, adding an informal and natural touch to contrast with the more structured areas around the pool and decking.
The overall design succeeded in modernising the space while honouring the garden’s original character. The clients are delighted with the results, especially with the new blend of formal structure and natural elements, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment that meets their needs. As the wildflower area matures and the garden settles into its new form, the balance between contemporary updates and established features will continue to bring charm and enjoyment for years to come.







































































