Award-Winning Country Garden Design in Burford
Updated: Aug 27
This Burford country garden was created from a waterlogged paddock, turning difficult ground into a structured and inviting outdoor space. Shaped lawns, generous planting, pleached trees and carefully built level changes combine to give the garden year-round form and interest.
The Brief
The site began as a waterlogged and largely unused paddock. The design needed to address the difficult ground conditions while creating a country garden with clear structure, year-round planting and comfortable connections between the house, terrace and lawn.
The Solution
Ground preparation and drainage work made the site usable, while carefully planned level changes created a strong connection between the terrace and the wider garden. Stone retaining walls, broad steps, shaped lawns, generous borders and pleached trees bring structure while keeping the garden connected to its rural setting.
Drainage and Ground Preparation
A herringbone drainage system was installed to manage the persistently wet ground and move excess water away effectively. This provided a stable foundation for the lawns, planting and hard landscaping above.
Improving the Soil
The ground was cultivated and organic matter incorporated to improve the soil structure, support healthy planting and help the site drain more effectively.
Natural Stonework and Bespoke Details
Yellow quartz paddle stone was used for the retaining walls, bringing natural texture and warmth to the garden. Custom bullnosed copings connect the stonework with the paved areas and give the level changes a clean, carefully finished edge.
Garden Lighting After Dark
A carefully planned lighting scheme highlights the steps, stone walls and cube-trained pleached trees after dark, making the garden feel considered and usable beyond daylight hours.
Marshalls Register Award Winner 2018/19
The completed project received a Marshalls Register Award in 2018/19, recognising the quality of the construction, detailing and overall garden design.
Planning a Country Garden?
If you are planning a country garden or need help with difficult ground conditions in Oxfordshire or the surrounding counties, contact Kew Green to discuss your project.
