A garden patio scene at sunset with a variety of potted plants and flowers, a white house with open shutters, a bench, and a lush green backyard with a large tree.

A formal garden with views across Bath
Bathwick Hill Bath

The idea

To ground the space, we retained the client’s central statue as a geometric anchor, using intersecting paths to define the garden's flow. The design purposefully juxtaposes a traditional, formal layout with the soft, rhythmic movement of contemporary naturalistic planting.

The flora

Inspired by the Naturalistic Perennial Movement, we expanded the original perimeter borders into deep, generous beds that stretch across the rear of the garden. This allows the planting to be appreciated from multiple vantage points. A transition occurs as delicate woodland-edge species merge into taller, structural perennials, creating depth and a sense of discovery.

The detail

Year-round structure is provided by a series of topiary domes scattered across the lawn, drawing the eye toward a secluded circular seating area tucked beneath a mature tree. For privacy and transition, a crisp yew hedge acts as a living screen, serving as a formal gateway that leads back to the main terrace.

A garden with a curved gravel pathway, trimmed bushes, various flowering plants, a stone statue, and a view of city buildings in the distance at sunset.
A white house with shutters, a patio with outdoor dining furniture and an umbrella, surrounded by a garden with flowers, trees, and well-manicured bushes.
A garden with trimmed bushes, colorful flowers, a stone statue, and gravel pathways, with cityscape and trees in the background during sunset.

“Working with Tom on this garden has been a wonderful collaboration – it's exactly how we wanted it.”

Jan

A garden with a dirt path leading through various colorful flowers and green foliage, with a large tree in the background and a sunset sky.
View of a city skyline from a garden with flowering plants, trees, and a stone wall in the foreground.
A lush garden with various flowers and plants, including white, purple, and pink blossoms, with a green lawn in the foreground and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
A modern outdoor patio with a built-in kitchen, dining area, and garden, featuring a black umbrella and potted plants.

Design and build: Eaglestone Gardens

Photography: Andrew Maybury