Balance of functionality, aesthetics and sustainability in London residential garden

Clay paver ensures visual harmony and continuity

This beautifully designed residential garden in Belsize Park, London, balances functionality, aesthetics, and ecological sustainability. Sitting nearly two metres above the lower ground floor and more than a metre below the raised ground floor of the house, the garden posed a unique design challenge. The project required integrating a lawn for the clients’ young children, a seating area in the sunniest part of the garden, a vegetable bed, ample storage, and lush planting.

Design and layout

The design evolved from a single arrival point, incorporating multiple functional zones seamlessly connected through thoughtful material selection. SeptimA clay pavers in Aureum were extensively used to unify the space, ensuring both durability and visual harmony. We also see an alternating green accent thanks to the olive-coloured variant of the clay paver. This creates a playful result and further strengthens the connection between garden and house.

The clay pavers were used for the steps and across both the lower and upper patios adjacent to the house, creating a cohesive transition between different levels. The tiered planting beds were clad with the same clay pavers, enhancing the continuity of materials. A mid-garden wall, paired with an existing boundary wall, supports a bespoke deep L-shaped hardwood bench. The sandstone terrace, which is partially enclosed by the L-shaped bench, provides a comfortable seating area. At its center, a steel fire pit with an integrated cover ensures the space remains functional even when the fire pit is not in use. To screen the garden from neighboring properties, the designer chose to integrate pleached ornamental pear trees at the rear. On the left-hand boundary wall, trellising offers additional privacy and echoes the vertical bands of the red steel railings near the house.

Planting scheme

The planting design introduces layers of seasonal interest, textural variety, and ecological benefits. Several vertical accents are presented by three multi-stem Malus ‘Evereste’ trees anchoring the planting beds and offering spring blossoms and winter fruits that harmonize with the red-toned railings. For seasonal interest and pollinator support, the Beebalm, Monarda ‘Jacob Cline’ mirrors the red hues of the railings in summer. Hydrangeas and herbaceous perennials were chosen to provide nectar and pollen throughout the growing season, encouraging biodiversity. In order to foster a connection with nature for the children, the designer also introduced edible planting. Wall-trained apple trees and a dedicated vegetable bed enable the family to experience homegrown produce.

Sustainable and ecological aspects

Sustainability was a consideration throughout the project, ensuring minimal environmental impact and long-term ecological benefits. Existing soil was largely retained on-site, with excavation limited to the lower patio and tiered planters, which double as structural supports for the upper garden. Another important aspect was water management, as approximately 75% of the garden comprises soft landscaping, significantly reducing surface runoff and promoting rainwater absorption. Additionally, a small green roof atop the house extension aids in temperature regulation and stormwater management. Lastly, special attention was given to biodiversity and pollination. The combination of flowering trees, shrubs, and perennials supports pollinators throughout the seasons. The seven newly introduced trees, along with two wall-trained fruit trees, provide crucial early-season nectar sources for bees and other beneficial insects.

This residential garden in Belsize Park exemplifies the harmonious integration of design, functionality, and sustainability. The use of SeptimA clay pavers in Aureum establishes a warm and timeless aesthetic, while the structured planting scheme and ecological considerations ensure a thriving, biodiverse environment for years to come. The result is a garden that not only meets the practical needs of the family but also enhances the surrounding urban landscape with beauty and sustainability.

Comparable case studies

Septima Aureum clay pavers create magical pathways edged with soft romantic planting

This is a city garden in Hammersmith, London which was originally an expansive lawn devoid of features and character and giving little interest and use to its’ owners. The family wishes were for an attractive but low maintenance and practical space. Hard landscaping materials needed sit in keeping with the character of the property, a London terraced period townhouse.