The plot for this new build timber framed house at the edge of the village overlooks water meadows, with a resident barn owl, and views of the rolling fields beyond. The client wanted to integrate the building with the landscape and create a haven for wildlife in the garden, on a low budget and with low, long-term maintenance.

The most important habitat created was a mixed, native hedge, soon home to a cacophony of house sparrows. The warm, red brick wall of a neighbouring barn provided the backdrop for a mixed border with flowering shrubs and perennials. A retaining wall to manage the change of level divided the house and main area of the garden, the curved beds beyond were planted with drought tolerant grasses and perennials to cope with the free draining soil and create an ornamental meadow linking the garden to the surrounding landscape.