Just to show that not all our projects are contemporary!

This was a country estate near Tarporley in Cheshire. It covered a total of six acres, all of which had to be landscaped. The main area was on a gently sloping, south-facing site, with beautiful views over the adjacent golf course.

The Grade II listed Georgian house and garden were both in need of complete renovation, and most of the crumbling brick walls were taken down and rebuilt. During the initial excavation process, we were intrigued to find a huge underground pit with brick-lined walls. The local conservation officer was called in and informed us that it was a rare ice pit used in Georgian times to store game and other meats using blocks of ice.

The clients gave us free rein as far as the design was concerned, but it became obvious that the original layout should be followed, keeping with the local vernacular and remaining loyal to the spirit of the place.

The elements we worked on were extensions of what was already there:

• The large lawn area was retained but levelled for cricket and croquet.
• The existing orchard, with only two apple trees, was replanted.
• The Cheshire brick walls were rebuilt and strengthened.
• Very little remained in the herbaceous border, so it was replanted with large, colourful drifts of perennials.
• Planting throughout the scheme was lavish to balance the extensive lawned areas.
• A large, two-level lake was introduced as a haven for wildlife.
• An enclosed, separate space was developed as a more formal area, with box hedging, sturdy white beams and elegant Mediterranean pots.

The garden is now more than 15 years old and has been lovingly maintained by the amazing John Clifton, whose plant knowledge has helped to develop this garden in all its glory.