Shuttleworth College, Bedfordshire

This garden was inspired by the architecture of the Shuttleworth Estate. The seats in the central conversation area are made from a single piece of ash, felled from the estate and seasoned for two years. The paving, laid in diamonds, is modelled on its Victorian glasshouse.

It is low-maintenance, designed to meet the demands of modern-day living. It mixes traditional with modern – LED spotlights highlight the slate path and mirrors hide the wheelie bin. Ornamental and herb plants and raised beds are arranged to give maximum impact throughout the year.