Large informal garden with natural pond, Berkshire

This large informal garden design and landscaping transformation project in Berkshire has created a beautiful, eco-friendly environment with delightful viewpoints. The owner of the Edwardian house in Berkshire commissioned Artscape to replace the existing rather rigid formal gardens with a more informal design featuring a large pond and softer, more naturalistic planting. Our client was keen for the gardens and landscaping to have definition and an attractive design yet to also be sustainable and wildlife friendly.

Natural pond design and planting

Using our natural landscaping and native planting expertise, we created a large, informal living wildlife pond. The new pond provides a delightful focal point for the garden as well as a vital habitat for wildlife. The natural shape was created by fitting the contours of the landscape. The varying levels and large rocks create flowing water which brings soothing sound and movement to the pond. The rocks and pebble beaches provide perches and easy access points for wildlife.

Pond planting scheme

We selected a variety of plants from submerged and floating, to emergent and marginal. Elegant Calla lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) and native water forget-me-not (Myosotis palustris) provide marginal interest in the pond. Rheum palmatum (ornamental rhubarb) gives large leaf interest beside the pond and creates dramatic reflections on the surface of the water. This is an excellent alternative to the giant rhubarb (Gunnera x cryptica) which has been banned as it has a negative impact on native biodiversity.

Traditional brick and stone hard landscaping

Our client’s brief also required us to build seating terraces for relaxing and dining, and new pathways. We used traditional brick pavers and York stone paving to create the inviting seating areas and paths. The brick and stone feel harmonious and natural and complement the style of the Edwardian house.

Using our garden design, natural landscaping and native planting expertise, our Artscape team has created a beautiful countryside garden in Berkshire that is being enjoyed by the owners’ family and wildlife too.