From Design to a Complete Garden

An English Cottage Garden in Savigné

In the summer of 2026, we began designing a beautiful English cottage-style garden in Savigné. The owners had recently purchased an additional piece of land to expand their existing garden. With a terrace and a wooden shed already in place, our challenge was to create a complete garden design that incorporated these existing features naturally.

After clearing the site and removing more than 40 tonnes of waste, we started the landscaping work in October 2026.

Overcoming the Levels

One of the main challenges was connecting three different ground levels to create a harmonious and practical garden. We achieved this using a series of retaining walls built from locally sourced natural stone, adding both structure and character to the design.

To create a clean, contemporary finish, all borders and lawn areas were edged with corten steel. The garden paths were constructed using gravel laid over honeycomb stabilisation grids, providing a firm and comfortable surface to walk on.

Structure, Water and Outdoor Living

A large lawn, installed using turf rolls, forms the heart of the garden. Above it, a robust Douglas fir pergola creates an impressive architectural feature and will provide a framework for future planting.

Near the terrace, a water feature will bring a sense of tranquillity and welcome cooling during the warm summer months.

To bring the garden to life after dark, we installed a fully automatic 12-volt garden lighting system. Carefully planned lighting will highlight key features, create depth and atmosphere, and allow the owners to enjoy the garden well into the evening.

At the back of the garden, we created a dedicated vegetable garden with three custom-built raised beds and a handmade compost bin, designed in the same style for a consistent finish.

The Next Chapter: Planting

The hard landscaping has laid the foundations for the garden, bringing together different levels, natural materials and functional spaces. Later in the year, we will return to introduce the planting that will complete the English cottage garden character, adding colour, texture and seasonal interest.

From an overgrown plot to a carefully structured garden, this project shows how thoughtful design and skilled landscaping can transform a space into a garden made for living — day and night.

The Dutch Gardener – Garden Design, Landscaping & Maintenance