How to design a Narrow Walled Garden

It is in the walled urban garden that one can most safely be bold in design, for what is within the walls need relate to little else. Any garden pattern within the uncompromising lines of surrounding brick walls has to be strong and heavily planted to create a balance between greenery and the structure of the garden. This is especially true if your garden is dominated by a large overhanging tree - small scale planting is now doubly inappropriate.

This design (left) is one of contrast. Create crisp, hard lines with a brick-paved terrace and then separate this area with an asymmetrical pool, running the width of the garden. Beyond this, create a sense of mystery with a woodland style path and fuzzy planting to soften the effects of the surrounding walls while underlining the seclusion the boundary offers. Perhaps feature an arbour at the end of the garden. This adds style and intimacy, and the number of options available means you have a great deal of choice in the matter.

The second design is more abstract in style. When seen from the house, it features a very strong pattern. This proposal comprises of interlocking planting and gravel areas, separated by brick-on-edge. The simple planting scheme consists only of fern, for these are ideal for a shaded, town situation (this ofcourse assumes that the garden

is shaded). Spring bulbs and lilies can be added for colour, and a pool at the top of the garden adds an interesting formal feature.

Which ever design you choose, we hope these have offered some ideas on how to style your narrow, walled garden. Both feature a patio ideal for entertaining, an Alfresia offers great patio furniture and heating at a marvellous price.

Alfresia is an online retailer supplying garden furniture.

Images taken from 'The Complete Gardener' by John Brookes.