I'm pleased to share the latest design from Sarah Kay Garden Design - a New Orleans Style Courtyard for a compact South West facing garden in E12.
My client wanted an outdoor space which would complement the industrial/bar style kitchen that he was planning and was drawn to the New Orleans style of garden, which feature brick patios and walls, black metal detailing, Rennaisance style planters and lush, tropical planting.
The existing garden was quite private due the existing Laurel, Cherry and Olive trees and I was keen to incorporate these into the new design.
The view from the kitchen is key as my client was planning to install new Crittal doors looking out onto the garden. It is imperative that the minimalist, sleek nature of these door is enhanced by the view out to the garden.
My client was key to add some height and visual interest around the doors. I've recommended a black powder coated metal verandah type structure, which also for climbing plants and festoon lighting to be hung, whilst not dominating the view from the kitchen.
Small brick raised beds provide a change of level, allowing for additional seating and planters for large architectural/tropical plants like Trachycarpus fortunei and Dicksonia antarctica. The adjacent flower beds will be edged in the same brick, which also links to the house architecture.
To provide some textural contrast and a permeable surface, the main patio will be herringbone clay pavers , with a metal bistro set and black metal bench providing flexible seating options to enjoy the sun at different times of the day.
I was keen to maximise use of the underused side return so created an alternative part-shaded relaxation area, with a black painted wooden and steel rod pergola positioned over a shady flower bed, bench and gravel and stepping stone path leading to the living room door. A practical storage shed will also be housed at the end. Views through the kitchen and utility room windows will be enhanced with climbers and vintage wrought iron gates on the boundary brick wall.
Planting will have a tropical feel, with including Ferns, Arum Lilies, Bergenia and Vinca. Evergreen climbers including Trachelospernum jasminoides and climbing Hydrangeas will feature strongly and architectural plants including Agapanthus and Astelia will be displayed in large Ironstone planters.
Key plants will be uplit to provide interest all year round with a wall light and festoon lighting providing additional lighting when required.