This house enjoys breathtaking views of the sea from Maidencombe, Torbay, in Devon. Our clients wanted a garden that was not only beautiful but also practical—a space where they could truly relax, entertain, and enjoy time with family and friends over cooking and dining. With this in mind, we set out to create a stylish, contemporary garden that would transform their outdoor living experience.
The project posed a significant challenge due to the dramatic level change of over five meters. The existing garden was in a tired and disorganised state, with decayed decking and broken paving that made the space feel overwhelming. Our task was to bring order, beauty, and functionality to the landscape.
To achieve this, we reimagined the space across multiple levels. The upper level was transformed into a sleek composite deck with glass balustrading, maximising the stunning sea views. From there, descending porcelain steps lead to a sunken thermal spa, elegantly framed by hedging and Amelanchier trees, which add both colour and privacy while preserving the spectacular outlook.
The lower areas were carefully designed with raised timber beds for growing herbs and vegetables, linked by pathways that connect different sections of the garden. An east-facing terrace was seamlessly integrated with the upper deck, featuring a pergola draped in grapevines that unify the space and create a sense of cohesion throughout the property.
To enhance the ambience, we installed lighting within the decking and borders, extending the usability of the space into the evening with a warm and inviting glow. Finally, a new block-paved driveway, refined planting borders, and sleek fencing completed the transformation, bringing a contemporary yet timeless elegance to this coastal retreat.