Beyond excited to have designed the garden spaces and entrance for two stylish holidays villas, aptly named ‘The Coach House’ and ‘Barn’ for Hoods Croft Stays. Situated in East Sussex and part of a wider country estate, the villas are surrounded by the beautiful Chailey Common, which is a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’.

Following a narrative of ‘Alfresco Living’, I designed relaxing outdoor rooms where guests will feel like they are on holidays as soon as they step into the gardens. From families, friends, couples, to those staying solo, I wanted to create spaces visitors could enjoy throughout the year. The spaces complement the surrounding environment, the interior design of the villas and exterior architecture. Although two separate spaces, both gardens blend in terms of look and feel, appearing as one cohesive space, with the same design language throughout, whilst also functioning as separate areas.

With spaces for relaxing and entertaining, natural materials with warm, earthy and calming tones have been selected, to create an alfresco vibe. Bespoke seating is surrounded by inspirational planting, so guests continue their nature story in the gardens. A mix of native and non-native species trees and shrubs will increase biodiversity. A focus on evergreens will provide a striking and structural green backdrop throughout the year. Complemented by pretty perennials, bulbs and evergreen grasses which will intermingle through the borders. With a calming colour palette of purples, pinks and whites, the perennials selected are loved by pollinators, and will give pops of colour from late winter though to autumn. Evergreen grasses give structure to the borders and visually connect to the surrounding nature reserve. Planting includes a field beyond, which will feature a selection of new native trees, in line with ecological targets.

Size: Coach House 60m2 of 111m2 scheme.

Duration: 2023/2024

Status: Complete