GARDEN DESIGN & ESTATE MAINTENANCEThe Tithe Barn Garden
The Tithe Barn Garden beautifully marries history and nature, honouring its 18th-century roots while embracing a design that offers fresh, contemporary appeal. Inspired by classic Arts and Crafts principles, especially the work of William Morris, this garden seamlessly blends historical detail with modern aesthetics.
Designed to evolve over the years, it integrates naturalistic elements reminiscent of Tom Stuart-Smith, featuring flowing grasses and ornamental seed heads that add texture and seasonal interest. Our approach prioritised both form and function, using carefully designed structures that serve as effective windbreakers without compromising visual appeal. At the heart of the garden lies an enchanting labyrinth, offering a space for exploration and embodying a unique blend of heritage and artistry.
The soft landscaping forms gentle contours, connecting the garden with the wider landscape, while natural beech panel hedging follows organic curves, reminiscent of traditional agricultural borders. The beech curved hedges, with their changing seasonal colours, attract wildlife and provide effective wind protection for vibrant perennials. Evergreen yew topiary and clipped spheres enhance structure year-round, harmonising with olive trees, while Parrotia persica multi-stemmed trees add height and striking autumnal displays.
A sculptural serpentine landform winds its way through weeping willow trees, creating dynamic contours to the space, a further connection to the natural landscape and an immersive opportunity to sit or lie against its banks and take in the views. The landform mound has been turfed using a species rich mix, to complement the countryside situation and increase biodiversity.
Island borders incorporate silvery greens, lilacs, lemons, pinks, and whites, with hardy plants chosen for their resilience against the exposed conditions. Ornamental grasses lend movement, creating an amphitheater effect that enriches the garden’s sensory experience.
Rooted in local influence, this garden expertly blends traditional and contemporary elements, creating a dynamic, vibrant space that our clients have described as a transformative addition to their family’s quality of life.
Contractor: Sanders Landscaping
Plant supplied by: Kingsdown Nurseries, Kelways Plants & Wildflower Turf
Stone birdbath & hardscaping by: All Green
Carpentry: Raku Timber and Framing
Willow screens: Jay Davey Willow
Planting: Bath Garden Design
All images © 2023 Craig Morris