Contemporary Barn Conversion
Presented with a completely blank hardscape in need of warmth and softening, we transformed a tired, functional space into a secluded sanctuary for entertaining – complete with a bar, swimming pool, and a sense of immersion in the surrounding nature, all nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
We created a garden that links a barn conversion and guest accommodation, both of which wrap around a central gravel courtyard. This space features shaded areas for dining, a bar for evening drinks, and an elegant pool — all grounded by a palette of local stone and soft clay pavers that blend contemporary style with a naturalistic feel.
A gently winding wildflower walkway leads away from the social spaces to a more secluded corner of the garden, where a naturalistic pond offers a peaceful place to sit and reflect, framed by views of the open Cotswold landscape. On the edge of the design, an apple orchard adds seasonal interest and a sense of rootedness in the countryside.
As the sun sets, a subtle lighting design allows the garden to transition effortlessly into evening – extending its use for entertaining while maintaining a softness that doesn’t compete with the surrounding night sky.
The planting for this garden was designed to reflect the relaxed atmosphere of a gravel garden while sitting comfortably within the surrounding Gloucestershire landscape. With an emphasis on grasses and native-style shrubs, the palette leans into greens, blues, and purples creating a soft, naturalistic rhythm that shifts beautifully through the seasons.
In spring, the planting begins with rich tones, featuring dramatic Iris ‘Superstition’ to bring deep purples to life. As the seasons unfold, the palette softens into gentle blues, whites, and pastels with Hydrangeas, Proscaias, and Echiums providing texture, structure, and colour well into the autumn.
Around the pond, wildflower banks create a striking seasonal moment. In early summer, they burst into a vibrant display of oxeye daisies and campions, followed by a second, more subtle wave of wildflowers and grasses through midsummer offering a changing, living edge that contrasts beautifully with the more structured gravel garden.
Tucked behind the bar, a simple yet impactful combination of Persicarias and Hydrangeas adds lush texture and leads the eye toward the secluded pond path, encouraging a quiet escape from the main social areas.
