This comprehensive design project reimagines St Giles Lodge, a 5.3-acre historic estate in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, as a contemporary family landscape inspired by the voyages of Captain James Cook and the traditions of botanical exploration. The masterplan responds to the client’s brief through a series of connected spaces, including formal and productive gardens, wildlife habitats, entertaining areas, sustainable drainage systems and extensive ecological enhancements, creating a landscape that balances heritage, biodiversity and modern family living.

The project demonstrates the complete garden design process, from site analysis and concept development through to master planning, planting design and technical detailing. Particular emphasis was placed on sustainable, climate-resilient design, introducing new woodland, species-rich meadows, bioswales, native hedgerows and renewable energy solutions to create a landscape that is both environmentally regenerative and highly functional.

This garden redesign transforms The Old Rectory, a historic property in Dishforth, North Yorkshire, into a series of contemporary outdoor spaces inspired by the traditional role of the English rectory garden. The concept reinterprets historic ecclesiastical landscapes for modern family living, creating distinct garden “rooms” for entertaining, relaxation, productive growing and woodland retreat, while improving privacy, circulation and year-round interest. A restrained material palette, characterful planting and carefully structured spaces respect the property’s heritage whilst creating a practical, elegant landscape that responds directly to the client’s lifestyle and long-term aspirations.