‘My city garden is a green oasis’
A neglected jungle was given new life with a design that combines structure and functionality with wild, atmospheric planting
Urban transformation
Three years ago Rosie Moneycoutts left a fast-paced job in central London to set up her own company (papr.com). When the dust had settled and her business was thriving, she finally had the time and budget to do something with her large, previously unloved garden. It had fallen to the bottom of her list of home improvements because she had no idea where to start. ‘I had bifold doors fitted out to the garden and suddenly had an unencumbered view of a big, neglected jungle,’ says Rosie. She entrusted the team at TJG Gardens (tjg-gardens.com) with the task of taming it. With a taste for simplicity and calming colours in her interiors, Rosie was up for doing something different and more adventurous outside. In terms of the space, she wanted a rear terrace to catch the evening light and provide an entertaining area. Laurel hedging planted alongside gave it an instant sense of privacy. The rear wall was imposing so it was painted a natural green colour. A bright, winding path was installed from the front to the back and two Acer palmatums were planted to help the flow of the garden and provide interest later in the year.
Terrace
‘My mum bought me a bird table for my birthday and I’ve loved watching all these small birds enjoying the new space as much as I have.’
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
“It’s made me realise how lucky I am to have such a beautiful open space, especially living in London. And gardening and plants are definitely things I want to keep learning about”
Dining area
The dining area feels secluded and is flanked by Laurel nobilis, while Ceanothus brings a healthy dose of colour. Painting the wall at the back in a soft shade of green has helped it to blend in with the lush planting that surrounds it.
Breakfast nook
Just beyond the bifold doors lies a spot where Rosie can catch the early morning sun next to her favourite tree. A simple bistro set from Argos fits perfectly in this compact corner, which is ideal for a leisurely start to the day with a cup of herbal tea.