Rural Country Retreat

Mattingley, Hampshire

An idyllic thatched cottage is the perfect rural country retreat. Surrounded by buttercup-filled fields, the garden is designed to emphasise the countryside views. Around the cottage the garden is more formal in style. Additionally, a small herb parterre and standard white roses underplanted with lavender, follow the curve of the terrace and lead the eye out into the garden.

The central section is laid to lawn with informal mixed shrub and perennial borders. Towards the end of the garden nestles a small brick shed and seating area surrounded by lavender; a perfect spot to enjoy the evening sun.

In order to blur the transition between the end of the garden and the open fields, the grass is left to grow long. Furthermore, paths mown through the grass provide access to the compost heap. To one side, a gate leads out to the adjacent grazing meadow, where a bench and newly planted memorial weeping willow tree provide the perfect spot to enjoy those buttercup meadows.