Harpenden Garden Concept – Turning Forgotten Corners into Family Sanctuaries

This concept garden design was created for a family in Harpenden who wanted to reimagine the forgotten end of their garden — a patch that had become overgrown, underused, and disconnected from the rest of their outdoor space.

Our brief was to make it welcoming and multi-functional, with something for every family member — from kids and teens to parents and guests. The result is a layered, textural design that blends structure and softness, activity and calm.

🌿 The Concept: A Journey of Discovery

• Winding gravel paths lead through naturalistic prairie-style planting, with grasses and perennials offering colour and movement throughout the seasons.

• A central magnolia tree becomes the heart of the space — framed by natural boulders, cobbles and clipped topiary for contrast and calm.

• A firepit zone creates a cosy space for family and friends to gather on cool evenings.

• A teen lounge deck, furnished with beanbags and screened by climbing jasmine, offers privacy and independence.

• A garden gym, designed on durable composite decking with a timber-framed porch, is accompanied by a minimalist water feature — a space for movement and reflection.

🪴 Design Notes:

• Planting zones provide year-round interest while requiring low water use

• Screening adds structure and privacy without sacrificing openness

• Space planning ensures each area flows naturally into the next

This concept is a reminder that even the most overlooked corners of a garden can be transformed into intentional, beautiful, and usable outdoor rooms — ready to grow with the people who use them.