Aylesbury Vale

A garden with a view

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Set on a hillside in Aylesbury Vale, this project enjoys panoramic views across the Chilterns.

The architect-designed property sits on a prime plot, but the landscape presented a number of challenges, including difficult access to the front and a steep, exposed rear garden.

PROJECT DESIGN BRIEF

Create practical and attractive access and parking to the front of the property
Retain key mature trees where possible
Ensure the front garden complements the architecture of the house
Overcome challenging levels in the rear garden
Provide multiple seating areas with different outlooks
Maximise and frame the long-distance views
Introduce shelter from wind in exposed areas
Use materials that reflect the blend of traditional and modern design

Modern garden with glass railing and lush plants.

The Challenge

The site combined several constraints. The front garden had limited access due to mature trees, while still needing to accommodate turning and parking.

To the rear, the steep slope and exposure to the elements made it difficult to create comfortable, usable spaces. Balancing practicality with the need to preserve and enhance the views was central to the design.

OUR DESIGN APPROACH

We developed a scheme that handled the front and rear gardens as distinct but connected spaces. The front focused on access, structure and kerb appeal, while the rear was shaped around levels, shelter and the long views.

Throughout the project, 3D visualisation played a key role in refining the design and ensuring the spaces felt balanced and proportioned before construction began.

Modern house with solar panels and garden

KEY FEATURES

Front Garden Design and Access

The front garden layout was shaped around a retained mature tree, which now forms a central turning circle. This not only solved the access challenge but also created a strong visual anchor for the space.

Materials and Architecture

Materials including Corten steel, Vande Moortel bricks and natural stone walling were chosen to sit comfortably alongside the house. The aim was to reflect the same balance of traditional and contemporary design found in the property.

Terracing and Landform

To manage the steep slope at the rear, gabion structures were introduced to create a series of terraces. This allowed for level areas of lawn and seating without compromising the natural feel of the site.

Seating and Outdoor Living

Multiple seating areas were created across different levels. The upper terrace offers open views and a connection to the house, while a lower seating area provides a more sheltered and private space that catches the evening sun.

Shelter and Screening

Closer to the house, a cedar screen was introduced to help reduce wind exposure around a lower terrace. This creates a more comfortable outdoor space without blocking key views.

Steps and Movement

Corten steel steps connect the different levels, providing a clean, contemporary look while guiding movement naturally through the garden.

Planting and Soft Landscaping

Planting was selected to withstand exposed conditions and periods of summer drought.

A wildflower meadow helps blur the boundary between the garden and the surrounding fields, enhancing the sense of space and connection to the landscape.

Maximising the View

The overall layout was carefully planned to frame and capture the long-distance views.

Each seating area offers a slightly different perspective, making the most of the garden’s elevated position.

The Outcome

The finished garden successfully transforms a challenging hillside plot into a series of practical, comfortable and visually striking spaces.

By carefully managing levels, materials and planting, the design enhances both the architecture of the house and the wider landscape.

The result is a garden that feels integrated, resilient and fully connected to its surroundings.

Brick house with lush garden and gravel path.