HOUSE IN THE TREES
The dynamic use of water adds impact and dramatic perspective : The reflective pond, an impressive central element - cuts it's way through the levels of the garden, providing continuity, tranquility and calming sound. Water bubbles-up from its source at the highest level (midway in the garden) running "downstream" towards the main living area - the heart of the house, creating an air of serenity. A sense of flow is achieved through the use of a sequence of cascades, utilising and enhancing the changes in level within the garden.
The garden not only boasts a sophisticated cocktail of mature specimen trees - a statuesque Cornus controversa (Handkerchief Tree), Quercus phellos (Willow Oak), multi-stemmed Betula Nigra (River Birch) and Gleditsia triacanthos (Honey Locust Tree) - but also the project brings together formal and informal planting incorporating an "evergreen-backbone" of Taxus and Buxus and an abundance of perennials blended with grasses.
Hard landscaping incorporates massive slabs of textured fossilised honed limestone with "stepping stone" path details of the same material complimenting the resin-bonded gravel drive.
Photography : Steven Wooster