Capel Manor College, Enfield, North London

Students wanted to inspire homeowners and passers-by showing how much could be achieved in an ordinary, urban front garden.

By removing the boundary of a fence, they opened up the space to the neighbourhood.

The young gardeners used staggered paving to create the illusion of space as the path follows the smooth curves of the copper wall, which also reflects light and brightens things up.

A living wall, green roof and insect hotel bring a touch of nature to the heart of the metropolis, while the copper water feature in the private seating area acts as a tranquil escape.

Use of sedum roof on the canopy and gaps between the paving slabs allow water to drain into the soil, reducing stress on the groundwater drainage systems.

Ornamental grasses create movement in the space, while Euphoroa ‘Whistleberry

Garnet’ brings a The planting forms a contrast with the wall and provides height, form and colour.

This wildlife-friendly space is also aimed at boosting insect, bird and mammal populations, in a time when so many front gardens have been stripped right back and completely paved over.