Slindon
This impressive home was built within sloped dense woodland, which Mark has transformed into a garden of structural banks with numerous seating and play areas for the family to enjoy. The children particularly enjoy running through the winding paths of the wildflower meadow areas - picking fruit off the trees planted amongst the meadow grass and flowers.
Handcrafted Indian sand-stone steps lead through the flower beds from the house to the lawn, creating an open and inviting route up into the garden and remaining woodland beyond. From personally sculpting every slope and curve in the digger to building walls with logs saved from the felled trees and hand chiselling the sandstone steps and walls, this garden is a perfect example of Mark’s hands-on approach to design and his unique relationship with each site.
Knapped flint walls with hand-sculpted edges define the seating courtyard area that nestles into the raised bank, surrounding diners with immersive 'English Country Garden' style planting and views of the garden beyond. Handmade gates using timber from the old woodland open up onto an extensive driveway that meanders up towards the house nestled between planted banks. The planting here was considered to ensure beautiful year round colour and structure.
The final touch added in 2023 with two bespoke wooden benches designed by Mark and made in collaboration with local sculpture Simon Groves.