THE SITE

An enchanting rooftop garden associated with a John Nash designed Crown Estate Grade II* CHECK - it may be Grade I listed property. The garden is a harmonious blend of classical architecture and contemporary garden design.

THE BRIEF

The inspiration came from a visit to Thomas Hoblyn’s Italianate Renaissance Garden at RHS Chelsea, which left a lasting impression on the clients. Inspired by the garden’s beauty and serenity, they envisioned an immersive rooftop retreat where they could gently unwind in the evening and create a gallery to showcase cherished pieces of sculpture. The clients required the garden to be a visual delight experienced from the main study in the house, seamlessly integrating the interior and exterior spaces. 

DESIGN DETAILS

A striking feature of this rooftop garden is the stone cut on a radius, which is a visual sensation, albeit a structural challenge to install. This intricate design element acts as an arresting focal element, adding a sense of depth and fluidity to the garden. The infinity edge water feature introduces tranquility and reflection, mirroring the central London skyline in the distance. Tom expertly capitalised on the unique opportunity for horticultural creativity presented by Central London’s microclimate to curate a Mediterranean inspired planting scheme that thrives in this urban oasis and introduces bursts of colour and fragrance, creating a sensory experience. The garden features a sculptural cork oak, which evokes the timeless charm of Mediterranean landscapes, with Italian cypress to add verticality and structure.

PHOTO CREDIT

Helen Fickling