Key Features
- Three-tier terraced design on a steep slope
- Local flint and stone retaining walls
- LED step lighting for safe evening use
- Wind-tolerant coastal planting palette
- Uninterrupted views to the South Downs and sea
Materials
Project Details
- Completed
- 2023
- Build Duration
- 6 weeks
- Location
- Woodingdean, Brighton
Gallery
The Brief
Charlotte’s detached home sits high on the edge of the South Downs with panoramic views across to the sea. The existing garden was exposed, windswept and dominated by a steep slope that made most of it unusable. She wanted terraced levels that could be enjoyed without battling the gradient, alongside planting that could cope with the exposed conditions and enhance — not block — the dramatic views.
Our Approach
The steep gradient was addressed through a series of three terraced levels, connected by wide natural stone steps with embedded LED risers for safe evening use. Each level serves a different purpose: an upper dining terrace closest to the house, a mid-level lawn for relaxing, and a lower planted area that blends into the downland beyond.
Retaining walls were constructed from locally sourced flint and reconstituted stone — materials that root the garden in its South Downs context. The walls are designed with generous proportions to double as informal seating, reducing the need for additional furniture and keeping the space feeling open.
Planting was carefully selected for wind tolerance and low maintenance. Coastal-inspired species — sea thrift, eryngium, grasses and lavender — thrive in the exposed conditions and echo the surrounding chalk grassland. The planting softens the hard landscaping without competing with the views.
Ed understood straight away what we were after. He listened, asked brilliant questions, and came back with a design that felt completely right. The planting choices were inspired — we have colour and interest all year round. It genuinely feels like we've gained an extra room.
Charlotte
Woodingdean
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