David Andersen Contemporary Garden Design

Sedum Roof: Manchester

2012-01-23T14:36:00.006Z

Sedum is a wonderful option for a green roof being a fairly tough plant that virtually looks after itself.

Some properties of a green (sedum) roof:

a) Helps alleviate flooding by delaying the process of rainwater runoff and so puts less pressure on sewerage systems.

b) Thermal Insulation simply helps create an extra layer and so the room beneath is warmer in winter and kept cooler in summer.

c) Natural habitat for birds insects and animals…they all benefit from a green roof.

d) Aesthetics: it looks good! The only alternative with this scheme was gravel…which intime would have become discoloured with algae. The colours of the sedum roof will change throughout the year providing a truly living roof.

This closeup shows the drainage layer with small pvc cells which hold the rainwater providing a steady supply to the root system.

Antony Gormley "Another Place" Crosby Beach November 13, 2011

2011-11-21T16:16:00.000Z

I was helped enormously by mother nature here. The movement of the sun across the sky on a late November afternoon and the moon doing her job by organising the tide to be way out.
Massive expanse of beach in all directions gives a timeless quality to this dramatic installation.
Ihe individual fugures felt as though they had been here for centuries looking out to the Irish see...waiting waiting.
As a big fan of modern art set in the landscape I feel this has to be one of the best.

Tabley House, Knutsford

2011-11-18T14:36:00.002Z

One of our recently finished schemes was for one of the cottages within the Tabley House estate near Knutsford.

The brief here was for a " low maintenance, contemporary, outdoor space for eating, relaxing and entertaining".

The beautiful yellow balau hardwood timber decking (from a sustainable source) creates a welcoming effect in this small courtyard-type area.

The stunning stainless steel waterfeature acts as a perfect focal point and has been offset using the 2m high rendered wall as a backdrop.

Planting is minimal with the cordyline australis creating a dramatic, fairly tropical feel. (After the last two winters, the clients have been left with strict intructions to cover them over when cold temperatures are forecast.)

Finishing Touches

2011-11-10T15:27:00.002Z

Putting the finishing touches on the garden. The Indian paving contrast well with the raised sleeper beds. The gravel beds within the paved areas are great for grasses and herbs and the client has introduced his own chimera for keeping warm on chilly evenings!

The planting includes three varigated phormium as well as three small trees (to help create privacy): acer 'Bloodgood', cotoneaster cornubia and a small rowan. These tree provide beautiful autumn colour as well as berries for the birds.

Progress Continues . . .

2011-10-31T18:21:00.004Z

In this small inner-city Manchester garden the yard is taking shape.

Here we can see the natural stone paving (Indian Stone) is going down.

Several large planting pockets are being left within the paved areas, mainly for herbs and small grasses. The original mature bamboo is being left to create some privacy for the small dinging area behind.

All in all we should be finished next week.... we start installing the lighting and plants on Monday/Tuesday.

Sanctuary in the City

2011-10-25T14:36:00.013+01:00

This has to be one of the smallest gardens we have built for a while.........in sunny inner-city Manchester

The garden ('backyard' rather) measures a mere 4m x 6m with access via a small cobbled service road at the back of the row of terraced house

Our client wants to create a semi private, relaxing oasis in the midst of a bustling city..a place to unwind and entertain.

First task is to move the bike shed and this means making a new concrete base. The shed has to be moved because our client has identified the spot it currently occupies as catching late afternoon/ early evening sun.

Second task is to build some timber sleeper retaining walls to help define the plant areas. This will allow the soil level to be built up....allowing new root systems to be well drained.

The next job is to re-build the leaning (and slightly dangerous) brick wall with the new gate aperture moved across to allow for a new, hardwood 'L-shaped' bench to be built for eating out.

We are hoping to finish this smallish scheme within the next two weeks (weather permitting!) Keep checking in for progress.=

The Well Designed Deck (a new post after a rather long break!)

2011-05-15T15:30:00.001+01:00

It is often the way that homeowners tend to build the most basic of decks

with little or no thought to design. The truth is, that a well designed deck

need cost no more to realise than a basic square or rectangular shape.

The deck illustrated here has a circular theme. It is true that some time needs

to be devoted to calculating the tapered deck boards, and the neat stone circle

included to 'start off' the ccircular design, but the deck has so much more style

and 'wow' factor than would otherwise be the case.

This deck has been constructed from treated softwood.(available from B&

Q etc) with the grooved pattern on the underside. The treated softwood joists

extend out concentrically form the centre at 50cm intervals and are constructed

as octagonal shapes to support the timber deckboards.

The clever addition here (by the clients) of a circular table adds to the sense

of style.

Just a short update...

2010-07-12T10:11:00.003+01:00

Just a quick update on what's been going on since the last blog. With summer just beginning and warmer weather on its way (we hope!), we've been keeping busy with designing and building for lots of new clients. We’ve been working particularly hard on a garden design for a large ‘custom-built’ contemporary house. We’ve also done a little commercial work and several other large family gardens. An important consideration in family gardens is the incorporation of an area for the kids and an adult space for entertaining on a summer evening!

The idea of long summer evenings got us thinking about enjoying the garden after dark all year round (an important factor in contemporary garden design is that it can look just as stunning in summer or winter due to lighting placement and the architectural qualities of a contemporary design). So, when a client suggested that they might want a summerhouse from which to enjoy the garden on a cooler evening (let’s face it, without a firepit, heater or several blankets it’s not often warm enough to sit out all evening!) it got us started trawling the web for inspiration. One solution that came up was a high quality shed (don’t let the word shed put you off!). More affordable than an expensive new conservatory, yet they are still stylish and contemporary (we were impressed by a company called ‘Decorated Shed’).

If you don’t want to go as far a custom built shed, another option is a firepit. Firepits can either be free standing or built into the ground. Many of our designs incorporate firepits, with this one (with firepit built into the hardwood decking) being our favourite.

Anyway, hopefully the weather will stay warm for just a bit longer! It helps so much for the garden builds.

Gardens for Relaxation and Meditation

2010-04-13T15:15:00.002+01:00

I find increasingly that my clients are requesting a garden ( or a space within the garden) to relax….de-stress…or even meditate.

If we go back to one of the main principles of Japanese garden design we find that one of the most important reasons for a garden to exist would to create a sense of calm, indeed for the user to be at one with his/her surroundings in a spiritual sense. (See Frantisek Staud's photos of the Zen gardens in Kyoto - http://www.phototravels.net/kyoto/zen-gardens-index.html)

The design principles contained in the ancient Indian philosophy of Sthapatya Veda (which predate both Chinese and Japanese doctrines) direct all architects and garden designers in the direction of working in tune with natural law. Very precise principles are laid down in terms of symmetry, orientation, the use of specific herbs and plants etc…..all with the aim of creating balance and calmness within the minds and body of the user. Indeed the ultimate aim of enlightenment or spiritual self-realisation seems at the basis of the design philosophies. (see Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s interpretation of Stapathya Veda)

Q : So…how best can we use and indeed interpret some of these ideas in our own gardens ?

A : Usually I would suggest to a client wanting a meditative garden some of the following :

1 A simple interpretation of the space: this means, basically, few elements to the garden and used in a non ‘busy’ or over fussy way. For example, planting can be limited to a few species to create a calming effect.

2 Simple, clean lines: ……spaces divided up with good,strong geometry.

In the example to the right, we used a simple sleeper walkway meandering through a garden space. The walkway forms a perfect ‘S’ shape when viewed from above, but links the house, garden and summerhouse.

3 Use natural materials where necessary: This same garden was constructed with hardly any concrete or other unnatural materials. We used the simple elements of: timber, water and stone and chose plants carefully to help create a sense of harmony.

4 Use water: The use of water, whether still or moving, can have a very calming and therapeutic effect on the garden user. Both the sound of running water and the play of light on the reflective surface of a still pool can be calming.

5 Use of plants : using plants which are fragrant (some herbs and flowers have a soothing type of fragrance, for example lemon, lavender and mango - as illustrated by the widespread use of aromatherapy) Some plants are soothing because they move in the breeze (e.g. ornamental grasses such as miscanthus, bamboo etc) Some plants, of course, are reflective just because they look so awesome !

6 Sustainability: The very essence of sustainable gardening has of course been around since creation began (living in tune with our natural environment). The delights of birdsong or the mere presence of other living creatures can have an instant therapeutic effect.

I remember a few years ago trying to finish a garden off to a deadline, as the client’s were due back from holiday. The garden was in a rural setting and featured a new, large wildlife-type pond, I was finishing off the last of the planting down by the water’s edge and feeling (bizzarely) somewhat stressed! Suddenly, a stunning damselfly fluttered by and settled on the surface of the water. All at once I felt a sudden inner calm...as if nothing in the world mattered and that everything in the newly created scheme had been worthwhile! I felt instantly connected to everything that really was really important in the universe…something that is so easy to forget in the hurly-burly of everyday life.

Decking Experts - Homes and Gardens Magazine

2010-03-08T13:47:00.001Z

We have just been featured in this months (April 2010) edition of Homes and Gardens magazine.

The article gave expert advice on the usage of garden decking and its 'eco credentials'. They also printed a photograph of one of our designs (hardwood deck with seating and circular fire pit).

Great to see it in print!

The Finished Garden...night shots!

2010-01-25T13:48:00.001Z

The garden looks great at night, as can be seen from these photographs. I am always amazed at how different a landscape can look at night. In many ways the can client can have two quite different schemes for the price of one. Especially if they have large patio doors or other big windows looking out onto the garden.

The finished garden!

2010-01-07T16:40:00.000Z

This is the view looking away from the house of the finished garden.

The photinia topiary are now in stainless steel pots, as the ground in this area is very boggy.

The view is much opened up now that the 2m high brick wall is gone, and the rendered walls give a light contemporary look to this outdoor space. You can also see the successfully finished (and clamped!) glass water feature in the background (more evening photos of it lit on the way!)

As can be seen from the photograph, the temperature is well below zero. It would be a good idea to always protect newly planted plant material if it is of a more tender variety.

A FEW GARDENING TIPS FOR COLD SPELLS

- If frost damage does occur, it is important to protect your plants from defrosting too quickly in the morning sun. If the plants can't be moved, then the best way of doing this is by covering them with a thick black plastic.

- It's also a good idea to feed damaged plants with a balanced fertiliser, this will definitely help to encourage healthy growth.

- It's also important to watch out for snow damage (there's enough of it at the moment!). To prevent your trees, shrubs and hedges getting disfigured you should try to shake off any excess snow from their branches.

- Something to avoid: walking on snowy grass! It can damage the turf underneath and leave marks on the lawn.

RHS Tatton Show 2010

2010-01-07T16:21:00.000Z

We've just sent off our application for the 2010 RHS Tatton show, very exciting! The picture above is the 3d garden visualisation we created using sketchup and photoshop. A friend (Dan Archer http://www.archersculpture.co.uk/) is very kindly going to lend us a great contemporary sculpture, for the week, to finish off the garden.

We've decided to name the garden 'Tranquility Island' - the idea behind it is that it's intended as a retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life. The snaking sleeper bridge represents the journey through life as a spiritual quest. While arrival at the enclosed decked area is a metaphor for the fulfillment of achieving higher states of consciousness.

The garden is very elemental - it uses water, timber, stone and plants to create a harmonious series of spaces. We have tried to be environmentally conscientious with the design (the offcuts of boulders we're using would otherwise go to landfill), all the materials are going to be locally sourced to avoid unnecessary transport.

The preliminary planting plan for the scheme is ornamental with a Mediterranean flavour, we're going to use a selection of grasses and perennials set in large drifts. We also want to include 3 - 4 large trees as a backdrop - hopefully some beautiful old olive trees.

Elemental garden - approaching finish!

2010-01-07T15:13:00.000Z

Even with the wettest November on record, and with this current cold spell, we have managed to complete this striking elemental garden. We are always excited about schemes which we can build without using concrete or other modern products. This scheme features timber sleepers, huge slices of stone boulder (some as big as 2m x 1.5m!), water and an interesting selection of plants.

The plants shown above are euphorbia, phormium and cortaderia. We will have to wait until March to plant the marginal plants (plants like caltha and various iris).

New Glass Waterfeature!

2009-12-04T10:08:00.001Z

At last we are ready to assemble the glass screen waterfeature!

The clamps have now been re-fabricated with the new angle to accommodate the curve of the glass. They are bolted onto the floor of the sump ready to receive the glass screen (with pvc protection between)

Yes !!! it works !!

The glass is now in place and the task of delivering the correct flow of water to the top edge is begun.
We offered the waterblade to the top for a trial run and and found the effect really good. Now all we have to do is drill through the stainless steel sheet and the concrete block wall and connect up to the pump in the sump.

Tomorrow we will install the lighting (led and low voltage uplight). Can't wait ! Just wish it would stop raining!

Despite the rain....

2009-11-17T11:07:00.001Z

The garden is coming on….despite incredibly wet weather, we have managed to complete the painting of the rendered walls, the new deck is in place (garappa hardwood) and the photinia standards are ready for planting.

The curved glass screen has arrived, we are now working with our engineer and lighting designer to discover how best to fix it in place, light it , and to deliver the right amount of water to the top edge in order to create the effect of a sleek looking sheet of water.

In addition, the purchasing of most the plants is complete : mostly architectural plants with bold foliage, although seasonal colour will be provided by colourful herbaceous plants such as the autumn flowering nerine bowdenii, and shizostylis coccinea.

Further garden lighting continues with the installation of a series of stainless steel spike uplighters to all of the topiary plants and also led deck lights.

We are just hoping and praying for some drier weather to allow us to finish off.

A Family Garden: Update

2009-10-29T13:41:00.003Z

The scheme is progressing rapidly, the 2m high wall has been reduced down to 70cm, and has opened out the views to the surrounding countryside.

The raised planters have been built and the sett detailing has been laid. The fine tilth is being prepared ready for the turf.

The walls have been rendered and are drying out, ready to be painted. We are hoping that the dry weather will continue and allow us to complete the painting within the next few days.

The lighting cable has been installed, ready for connecting up the lights next week.

The large curved glass screen has been ordered for the water feature.... there is plenty of detailed design work to be done on this! .... never a dull moment!

This is the view towards the house, in the background is the recently rendered outside kitchen area and in the foreground, the proposed play area, with it's timber sleeper walkways currently under construction.
This area is to receive artificial turf, and the final stage of preparation is underway!

New Design Project: A Family Garden

2009-10-06T15:43:00.005+01:00

One of our latest projects is to create a family garden for relaxation, play and entertaining within this existing space.

The house is a barn conversion with potentially great views over the surrounding countryside...problem is that only a third of the available garden is contained within this 2m high wall and all the wonderful views are blocked.

The clients are a young couple with two small children and the brief is to include a contemporary area near the house with a play area in the middle section and make provision for an orchard and wildflower meadow in the third section.

The proposed design embraces all of the objectives providing both a sleek, modern area with deck, firepit and (safe ) waterfeature.

Watch this space to see how the scheme develops ...starting with the demolition of that wall !

Our award winning garden at Hampton Court

2009-09-28T11:55:00.008+01:00

This award winning show garden had an Australian theme and featured tree ferns (dicksonia antarctica), lots of running water and naturalistic rock formations.

This view of the same scheme shows the main deck area. Large slabs of sandstone have been laid within the inner circumference of timber slats. A translucent stain has been applied to the timber to create a distressed appearance while the planting and cobbles in the foreground give this scheme a 'seaside look'.

Planting in this scheme included drifts of iris sibirica and lobelia.

A New Design Project - A Pennine Retreat

2009-09-22T16:18:00.008+01:00

We have recently been commissioned to design a new landscape around this wonderful high-Pennine farmhouse.
The house itself is set in a valley almost at the highest point of the Pennines above Todmorden, and is reached by a narrow farm track.
Originally built in the 18th century as a working farm, the field to the front of the house has been extensively planted with trees by the previous owners and has become somewhat crowded.
The existing landscape comprises a veritable homestead with two vegetable plots, goats, a chicken run, a river, a quarry and several beautiful woodland glades. The wooded hillside is thick with indigenous wild flowers and runs down to a small, fast flowing river whose series of waterfalls provides plenty of drama and wonderful, magical sounds.

The grounds are a natural habitat for birds and wildflowers.
There is plenty of scope here for fresh design ideas…the main challenge will be to re-design according to the ‘spirit of the place'. We will have succeeded when the vistas are made more beautiful by working with nature in a sustainable way, rather than attempting to apply any strong principles of garden design in the traditional way.

There are some natural constraints too:
• Harsh winds at times with the valley acting as a wind tunnel
• Acidic soil in parts (bilberries are a good indicator of low Ph and are plentiful on nearby peaks)
• Higher altitude means lower temperatures
• Hilly terrain means less sunlight especially during non-summer months.
There are several existing, fairly flat grassy terraced areas, ideal for use as informal seating areas with two vantage points overlooking the most dramatic sections of the fast flowing river.

During the winter months, access to the garden areas becomes difficult, so the panoramas from the house become incredibly important to the clients.

The clients (Two busy academics and their teenage daughter) have identified five areas to be developed:
• The front of house is currently used as public access and is little more than a farm track providing further access to a handful of dwellings. There is enormous potential for creating interesting and attractive design elements
• The area adjacent to the kitchen gets early morning sun and is ideal for eating out. The views from the dining area, particularly, need some sort of focal point or feature
• An existing elevated deck area will be redesigned to make it more inviting as a seating area
• The upper glade is currently a grassy seating area. Some sympathetic pruning of surrounding trees is needed and a terrace area will create a vantage point
• Two points that overlook the river below will benefit from hardstanding that will create areas to sit and enjoy the soothing drama of the water below.
So, this project should be both fun and a bit of a challenge.

Watch this space for some early design ideas…… see the project developing.

Inspiration Abroad

2009-09-22T14:33:00.011+01:00

This is one of my all time favourite landscapes. It is by the late Cesar Manrique, and is one of his many stunning schemes on Lanzarote. It is a semi-naturalistic water feature/swimming pool, using the natural hollow created by volcanic activity.

New Project - Beachside Garden, Cayman Islands

2009-09-22T10:27:00.017+01:00

These clients are lucky enough to have a beach house right by the ocean on Grand Cayman. The house was badly damaged some years ago by hurricane Ivan and is now undergoing a complete refurbishment. We have been asked to design a garden, which will not only reflect the ‘spirit of the place' but also be able to withstand the challenge of gale force winds. In addition to this, any plant material used must be very site appropriate. In this case that means being drought tolerant and resilient to salt laden winds.

In these circumstances it is always best to look to nature for direction (a good example of this is the late Derek Jarman's Kent seaside garden, in which he used only minimal, locally sourced plants.) On this site we will also be looking to the natural flora that abounds in the region, for example: Hohenbergia (Hohenbergia caymanensis), Ironwood (Chionanthus caymanensis) and Wild banana orchid (Myrmecophila thomsoniana) .

The client brief included a small swimming pool, a decked area for relaxation and gabions (wire crates filled with large pebbles found strewn across the beach). The gabions will be used to define the line between the garden area and the beach in a sympathetic, yet substantial way, and also to create a terraced effect replacing the existing sandy slope. Other design ideas include a funky gateway entrance to the driveway, again using the locally sourced materials, such as weather worn rustic timber, locally quarried stone and even rusty pieces of steel found on the beach.