Sloping Driveway

Old Alresford, Hampshire

After a substantial extension, this country home property requires a sloping driveway design solution. After the building work is completed there is a need for considerable land contouring to create an accessible driveway and parking areas. Furthermore, soft landscaping is required to anchor the house within the rural setting. Native trees and shrubs help to blend the new, large, sloping bank with the surrounding wild hedges and trees.

The new extension includes a snug room looking out onto a narrow side strip of garden. In the centre of this space a simple birdbath provides a focal point and is framed by yew topiary.

In addition to the front garden, the brief also addresses an underused area to the rear of the property. A flight of steps up to a small, unused paved platform were widened and a new retaining wall and piers built. In order to create a more usable space, the terrace was extended and retained with oak sleepers, providing a relaxed seating area. This is now an ideal spot in which to enjoy the evening sun and views across the countryside.

Local flint, salvaged from site, was recycled to create feature panels both around the birdbath focal point and in the paved terrace. This detail, and the use of plants suitable for the well drained, chalky soil, ensure that the design works with the surrounding landscape. As a result, the garden has a sense of place in it’s environment.