Courtyard-Style Garden with Pergola & Firepit
Dukes Avenue – Private Residence
Buckinghamshire
Private Client
Status: Completed
This small rear courtyard garden in Dukes Avenue, Buckinghamshire, was originally dominated by large conifers that overshadowed the space and restricted design possibilities. The homeowners wanted a more open, inviting garden for entertaining, with distinct seating areas positioned to follow the sun and a stronger connection between the house and the outdoor space.
Through careful planning, the majority of the conifers were removed, with only a couple retained along the boundary for privacy. In their place, structural trees were introduced to maintain a sense of enclosure while allowing more light into the space and ensuring the garden remained well-balanced and harmonious for years to come.
A Courtyard Garden Designed for Entertaining
The garden was designed to provide multiple seating and relaxation areas, ensuring the homeowners could enjoy different parts of the space throughout the day. A large pergola, designed and built in-house by the CGLA landscaping team, creates a partially screened dining area, offering both shade and a sense of privacy. Similar pergola structures are available from Oak Timber Structures for those looking to achieve a similar effect.
A decorative panel, sourced from The Steel Gallery, forms a striking focal point along a pathway leading from the house, adding architectural interest while subtly dividing the garden. A separate, more intimate seating area provides a quiet retreat, balancing openness with a feeling of enclosure.
Framing the Space with Trees & Elegant Planting
To introduce structure and dappled shade, “roof form” trees were planted, creating a sense of height and framing key views while allowing light to filter through. These trees not only add seasonal interest with autumn colour but also soften the architectural lines of the garden.
The planting scheme was designed to feel lush yet low-maintenance, using a blend of shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses in cooler tones. This combination enhances the sense of depth and movement, softening the harder edges of the landscaping while providing year-round texture and colour.
Firepit Feature & Hard Landscaping
The central axis from the house’s French windows was carefully designed to create a framed view leading to a paved firepit area, giving the garden a strong focal point. The paving features high-quality brick paviours (Chesham Multis) from HG Matthews, which add warmth, texture, and a traditional touch that complements the character of the house.
The thoughtful combination of hard and soft landscaping ensures that the garden is not only visually appealing but also practical and comfortable for entertaining in all seasons.
A Courtyard Garden That Blends Function & Beauty
The transformation of this Dukes Avenue courtyard garden has created a space that feels both open and intimate, with defined seating areas, structured yet soft planting, and elegant hard landscaping. The result is a beautifully balanced outdoor space that serves as an extension of the home, offering relaxation, social spaces, and a strong visual connection to the interior.
If you’re looking to redesign your garden with a focus on structure, elegance, and functional outdoor spaces, our expert team can bring your vision to life.
Ready to Transform Your Garden?
Contact us today to discuss your Buckinghamshire garden project, and let’s create a space tailored to your lifestyle.
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CGLA are an award winning team of Landscape Architects, Garden Designers Landscapers and Garden Maintenance Operatives working in Buckinghamshire, London and the South East, as well as on prestigious design projects across the UK and abroad. We are currently working in Oman, Jersey and France, and welcome enquires for design, landscaping or garden maintenance. Contact us here
