The owners of this family home have a young son who is passionate about football, so a key priority for the garden design was a large, open lawn suitable for regular kickabouts and energetic play. In addition to creating space for sports, the garden also needed to be adaptable enough to accommodate a 10-metre marquee for hosting parties and larger gatherings throughout the year.

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To soften and frame the lawn, Corten steel edging was used to define generous planting borders filled with a variety of evergreen and flowering plants. The evergreen structure comes from species such as Magnolia grandiflora, Bay tree, rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, cordylines, and ornamental flaxes. These provide year-round interest and a lush, established feel. Seasonal highlights come from dramatic alliums, elegant irises, and tall, airy Verbena bonariensis, which add movement and colour.

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A large trellis structure forms a multifunctional play and relaxation zone for older children. Currently designed for fun, it includes monkey bars, basket swings, and a hanging chair. The structure is planted with vines and white wisteria, which will continue to mature and take over as the children grow, gradually evolving into a tranquil garden feature.

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On the upper level of the garden, a productive edible area includes fan-trained plum, apple, pear, and cherry trees. There are also bushes of blackcurrants, blueberries, and figs, alongside kitchen garden staples such as fennel, rhubarb, strawberries, and mint.

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At the rear, a robust brick garden room with a concrete base was designed to retain the high boundary walls. It features large bifold glass doors that open fully onto the garden, making it a flexible space. Sliding timber doors conceal ample storage, and inside, the space serves as an all-weather playroom with games like football and air hockey. It can also be used as a home office or a teen hangout space.