Garden Design in Notting Hill
Client Brief and Design Approach
Within this compact city garden in Notting Hill, the brief was to create multiple outdoor rooms for entertaining and relaxing, while increasing privacy in an overlooked space. The design introduced a cedar pergola, built-in seating, and Japanese-inspired planting to deliver a calm, textured retreat.
Hidden Japanese-Inspired Garden in Notting Hill
Tucked away in Notting Hill, this central London garden was designed to create a series of outdoor “rooms” for relaxing and entertaining. The client’s brief was to maximise privacy and provide a variety of seating areas within a space that felt open, balanced and calm — despite being overlooked on all sides.
At the rear of the garden, cedar batten fencing forms a modern pergola with festoon lighting. As the surrounding planting matures, it will wrap around the fire pit and built-in seating to create a cosy, secluded space for evening gatherings. Closer to the house, a dramatic level change was resolved by moving the retaining wall further back. This opened up space for a large dining table and integrated bench seating, improving the connection between the house and garden.
Planting focused on texture, with soft greens and layered foliage brought to life with subtle pops of colour. The style draws inspiration from Japanese gardens, using shape, contrast and restraint to deliver a tranquil, immersive atmosphere.
The design goals included:
Defined outdoor rooms for relaxing and entertaining
A cedar batten pergola with festoon lighting and fire pit
Improved flow and usability through level change reworking
Textural planting with Japanese influences
A private, peaceful feel in an overlooked urban setting
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you based in Notting Hill?
I am based in Beckenham, offering garden design services to Notting Hill and the South East of England including London and Kent.
How does OB Garden Design incorporate biodiversity into their designs?
As one of London and Kent's award-winning garden designers, I aim to create joyful, biodiverse gardens by integrating features like wildflower areas and planting schemes that attract various wildlife, enhancing the garden's ecological value.
Can OB Garden Design incorporate specific features like outdoor kitchens or water features?
Yes, I have a reputation for creating multifunctional spaces that can include elements such as eating or seating areas, outdoor kitchens, water features, pergolas, fire pits and more.
