Requirement

Theories Landscapes was approached by Wetherby Senior School, London with specific requests for a well-defined vision of its outdoor space. The school wanted a functional seating area that would be both usable and comfortable. In addition, a fence was required to provide privacy and seclusion from the outside world.

The school envisioned a grander vision for its garden area, which included a pagoda with bench seating. The space was to be a peaceful and serene retreat in which to relax and enjoy the beauty of the garden.

The entire garden area was also to have a flat surface, creating a cohesive and functional space.

Work undertaken

Theories designed the outdoor space, incorporating a range of elements to create a pleasant and functional area.

The walls were softened with carefully-selected plants, and the space was designed to include both fixed and portable timber benches, providing a usable seating area.

To add an industrial edge to the design, the portable tables and benches were treated with a burnt finish, creating a unique and eye-catching look. The surface area was finished with a resin bound gravel that provided a continuous and level finish, and the company suggested a colour that complemented the timber finish.

To enhance the overall design, the door leading to the neighbouring garden was replaced with a timber design that matched the rest of the outdoor space. An acoustic fence was also designed with a planter in front, providing a functional and aesthetically-pleasing way to block out unwanted noise.

A pagoda with bench seating was designed for in front of the perimeter wall, creating a peaceful and serene retreat within the garden area.

Theories exceeded the client’s expectations by incorporating their specific requirements into a beautiful and functional outdoor space.

Site period

During the project, Theories faced unexpected challenges with the design when it was informed that the acoustic fence and pagoda had to be removed from the scheme due to neighbourly restrictions. When the designs had been presented to them, they had been very open to the project, understanding that noise and disruption would be kept to a minimum and no concerns were raised, giving the client the go-ahead. Despite this setback, theories remained committed to delivering a stunning outdoor space for the school.

Unfortunately, as work had progressed, when the neighbours raised concerns the materials had already delivered to the site for these items, and had to be removed. Theories re-thought the design and worked to incorporate other elements that would still meet the client’s needs and desires.

Timber sleepers were used to create planters, creating a rustic and natural look that perfectly complemented the overall design. Every detail was carefully considered to ensure that the final result would be both beautiful and functional.

Despite facing unexpected challenges, Theories was able to adapt its design and deliver a stunning outdoor space that perfectly matched the client’s vision. The use of timber sleepers for the planters was just one of the many elements that helped create a beautiful and functional space that the school can enjoy for years to come.

Project challenges

We faced several challenges during the project, starting with the issue of limited access to the garden area. As the rear entrance was not possible, all materials had to be brought through the school to reach the garden.

The removal of the pagoda and acoustic fence presented an additional challenge with extra collections from the site and lost time due to work already completed by the time the scheme was altered. Inclement weather was also a factor with several rain downpours hindering progress on site.

Despite these challenges, the company adapted its design to work around the access restrictions. The garden materials were designed to be easily transported through the school and deliveries arranged to work around limited parking on site. Some of the timber items were built in its workshop to reduce the site period, ensuring that the outdoor space could be completed within the required timeline.

Outcome

After two weeks on site the company's design and site team created a stunning and functional outdoor space that perfectly matched the client’s original brief, despite the removal of the pagoda and acoustic fence from the design.

The timber benches are not only functional, but also provide a stylish addition to the design. They can be secured to the surface, or left freestanding and movable for added flexibility.