Nestled on the Kent–Sussex border, this newly built family home required a garden design that matched its contemporary rural character while resolving the significant level changes across the plot. My clients wanted a harmonious outdoor space ready for summer—somewhere functional, beautiful, and seamlessly connected to the surrounding countryside.

At the front of the property, we created a new gravel kitchen garden designed to capture the morning sun. An island seating area provides a calm spot for coffee, while raised beds offer generous space for growing herbs and seasonal produce. This area now acts as a welcoming, practical extension of the home.

Where possible, the existing yew hedging was carefully lifted and repositioned to frame the pathway and define the newly formed planting beds. A statement Magnolia, underplanted with Hydrangea ‘Annabelle’, now creates a soft, elegant focal point at the entrance.

To the rear, the garden is approached via stepping stones that lead visitors alongside the house. Traditional farmhouse bricks were selected for the retaining walls and steps, paired with warm honey limestone paving to bring texture, character, and continuity to the landscape.

A series of gentle steps guide you down through the garden, connecting the upper terrace to the new lawn, the main lawn, and finally the natural pond beyond. Trees including Amalanchier Lamarchii and Magnolia were chosen for their open, sculptural form, while the planting palette focuses on movement, seasonal interest, and subtle colour shifts throughout the year.

These photographs were taken on planting day, capturing the garden at the very beginning of its journey.