This cozy and smart Notting Hill garden provides a lovely outdoor entertaining space between the client's elegant house and the beautiful communal garden. The brief was for a contemporary design and entertainment area to complement the house's full refurbishment.

From an unremarkable space, the garden now has a sophisticated, urban feel that matches the lines and limestone features of the same-level living space. Using classic elements such as Jura Blue cream limestone, and striking details like the slate water feature, the garden exudes a gracefully chic air. A slatted red western cedar trellis adds privacy to the space while focal evergreen structure creates planting interest. The water feature pleasantly soothes with its sound effects and complements the sculpture surrounded by the seasonal flowers. A bespoke stone bench provides adequate sitting and is long enough to lie in for sunny days.

The planting was kept simple but creates a powerful impact, with four Magnolia Grandiflora 'Nana', with their shiny leaves dramatically reflecting light provided by the sophisticated lighting system, as well as a rhythmical arrangement. The colour scheme for the planting consists of rich greens, creams and purple, contrasting beautifully with the clean lines of the space. The evergreen structures are underplanted with Buxus round topiary of various sizes and are surrounded by crisp white tulips, alliums. Hite laceflower, Orlaya Grandiflora, is planted in the summer perfectly reflecting the natural planting of the communal garden.

The client requested a subtle but sophisticated lighting scheme for evening entertainment and to highlight the water feature.