‘We transformed a sloping garden’
The Rusts made their garden more usable by dividing it into split-level spaces, each with its own look, feel and purpose
After spending six years renovating their cottage, Judith and Michael Rust turned their attention to the back garden – a rectangular plot that sloped upwards behind the house.
As part of the renovation work, the couple had added a rear kitchen extension with bifold doors and a spacious patio area beyond them. Apart from that, Judith was unsure what to do with the rest of the space. ‘It was mainly lawn and there was a very large apple tree taking up lots of room and casting shade over everything,’ says Judith. ‘It needed a complete rethink. It had to be low-maintenance with some structure and privacy, and I knew I wanted white flowers only, because I love the simplicity.’ She turned to Mike Reeves of Greenman Services, who suggested a split-level design with steps from the patio up to a flat, small area of lawn.
Although the garden is only a couple of years old, plant-packed borders make it look lush and established. Perennials and bulbs keep the interest and colour coming from spring to autumn. Ferns, evergreens and annuals like sweetpeas and snapdragons fill the gaps. She’s sticking to the all-white theme, but doesn’t stress when lilac, blue or pink blooms appear. ‘I’m fine with the odd bit of colour, but there was a wrongly labelled yellow rose I couldn’t ignore, so I moved that to the front garden!’