North London Front Garden Transformation

The client wanted to create a more accessible and attractive entrance to their home while incorporating a fully functioning driveway. The existing front garden sat on a steep slope, making access difficult and visually disjointed. The aim was to improve circulation, soften the approach to the house, and create a welcoming first impression without compromising practicality.

The primary challenge was the site’s dramatic level change. The house sits approximately 2.3 metres above street level, over a relatively short distance of just 8.5 metres. This steep gradient required careful planning to ensure safe, comfortable access for everyday use, while avoiding an overly engineered or harsh appearance at the front of a family home.

A series of gently rising levels was introduced to manage the slope in a way that feels natural and intuitive. Blue-grey sandstone setts supplied by Arbour Landscape Solutions were selected for their subtle tonal variation, durability and timeless character, helping to create a calm, cohesive surface that visually anchors the design.
The route to the front door was carefully considered to feel generous and welcoming, while integrated planting softens the hard landscaping. Seasonal planting was used to bring colour, texture and year-round interest, ensuring the garden evolves throughout the seasons and enhances the overall streetscape.