Designing A Social Garden

A place to entertain

This garden in Chattisham near Ipswich is attached to a guest house. The plan was to use the garden when friends came to visit, so the brief was all about entertainment. An external kitchen was not required as the house was open plan with bi-folding doors allowing for a seamless internal/external connection. Specific requests included a hot tub and large seating area. The garden was relatively small and narrowed at one end. Due to requirements for a number of people to be able to enjoy it, dividing the space had to be done so that it would feel spacious enough no matter where they were congregating. There is a relaxed seating area in addition to a more formal dining area and loungers by the hot tub. Furthermore, there is a courtyard style entrance should the garden be used for larger gatherings and parties with the raised planters allowing for guests to perch on these if required.

Key Features:

  • Sunken seating area
  • Cantilevered bench
  • Hot Tub
  • Fire Pit
CAD image of a social garden by Llevelo Garden Designs
CAD image of a social garden by Llevelo Garden Designs
CAD image of a social garden by Llevelo Garden Designs

Soft lighting uplights a multi-stem tree near a terrace. A garden room is in the back ground. The lighting creates a cosy look.

Creating Evening ambiance

We spend so much time and effort on our gardens so at Llevelo, we like to ensure they look good day and night. Soft uplights on this evergreen tree will mean there is a focal point throughout the evening and throughout the year.

A nearby dining area will offer additional seating when the clients host larger groups.


Focal Points

These stylish sculptures are nestled in low level planting. They create the perfect focal point from the home and new terrace.

A sculpture will offer a focal point from all areas within the kitchen garden; aligning with the two entrance points it will be easily spotted as soon as you walk into the garden.

Along one side of this kitchen garden is a pergola structure. Espaliered fruit trees will be trained over the arches to create a fun and unique feature. In the centre will be an informal seating area which will offer a partially shaded spot to retreat to.

The garden will be enclosed by a simple wicker fence which will allow views out to the remaining garden as well as views in when passing by.


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