Taking inspiration from the West Cumbrian coast, “Coastal Retreat” from the Cockermouth based Nigel Walker Paving & Carreg Design, won Gold at the 2011 Holker Garden Festival.
A simple but stunning design that would fit quite easily into any small garden and portrays the natural beauty of the West Cumbrian Coast.
To reflect the ripples on the sand, the paving is a design of interlocking circles approached by a curved path. This has been laid using Tobermore Tegula setts, enhanced with a pebble inlay.
Additionally, the raised beds are gently curved and lushly planted with a mix of grasses and herbaceous plants. The grey/charcoal colours of the paving and the walling also reflect the subdued tones of the coast.
A feature sail provides cover for the striking blue bistro table and chairs, and the focal point is a stunning Honister Slate water feature from which water gently cascades onto the pebbles below.
Planting in shades of silver and blues from the striking Eryngiums, Lavender and Eucalyptus contrast a strong architectural element provided by Phormiums and grasses. All of the plants have been chosen to cope well with the salty winds of West Cumbria.
The garden was designed by Tracey Hutchison of Carreg Garden Design and landscaped by Nigel Walker Paving & Landscaping Ltd. both of Cockermouth in Cumbria. Showing at horticultural events is new to both of them and Tracey said they was thrilled with their gold award and the comments from the visitors.
A simple garden to maintain, relaxing and welcoming with clean lines and stunning planting, the pair have created a wonderful oasis of peace which any client would be thrilled with. It was pleasing to see the extra wide paths which could accommodate a wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Nigel and Tracey would like to thank the businesses that supported them;
Honister Slate Mine; Lamberlea Pond and Garden Centre; J T Dove, Carlisle; Tobermore; Wildy Rural; Newgate Nurseries
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More Information
Nigel Walker Paving & Design Ltd
Holker Garden Festival – An overview