A social garden with wildlife attraction
Client brief
A long-held vision of the client was brought to life - a garden designed not only as an elegant space for entertaining but also as a thriving habitat to attract and sustain wildlife, especially pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The solution combined ecological function with aesthetic appeal by introducing a natural wildlife pond and ample patio area crafted from Tuscan Natural Limestone.
Design objectives
Ecological enhancement
- Deliver a functional wildlife pond featuring gentle slopes, native marginal planting zones, and a small waterfall to provide water movement, oxygenation, and habitat variety.
- Curate surrounding planting selections to draw pollinators - think lavender, foxgloves, and native wildflowers that bloom at different times to offer continuous support.
Social & entertainment space
- Lay a generous patio area with Tuscan Natural Limestone, chosen for its warm tones, durability, and classic beauty, ideal for hosting gatherings and enhancing the garden's natural character.
- Integrate seamless connections between patio, pond, and planting areas to encourage flow and visual unity.
Before
Our process
Consultation & 3D visualisation
- Detailed consultation captured the client's aspirations for wildlife enhancement and entertaining spaces.
- Utilised 3D design tools akin to Green Retreats’ standard practice for clarity and precision in layout planning.
Design refinement
- Adjusted patio dimensions to accommodate outdoor furniture and hosting needs without encroaching on ecological elements.
- Layout maximised natural light exposure while preserving planting zones around the pond.
Installation
- Carefully installed limestone paving - levelling and jointing done with precision for both aesthetics and safety.
- Pond excavation sculpted to varying depths, ensuring habitat diversity; waterfall plumbing hidden discreetly among natural stones; planting ledges crafted for natural look and pollinator access.
Planting & finishing touches
- Inserted a mix of perennials, shrubs, and wildflower plugs offering nectar-rich blooms throughout seasons.
- Added micro-habitats like log piles and stone clusters to further support invertebrates and small wildlife visitors.
The original plan
The build
As the project progressed, we adapted the plan with the client's input. Incorporating more curves and softening the look and feel of the garden even further.
The finished garden
A serene wildlife haven teeming with bees, butterflies, and other beneficial wildlife drawn to the water feature and flower-rich borders. A beautifully laid Tuscan Natural Limestone patio offering a warm, welcoming surface that complements natural textures and garden tones perfectly. The result is a thoughtfully integrated garden; socially functional, visually appealing, and ecologically rich - delivering joy for the homeowners, their visitors and a habitat for local wildlife.
