Creating gardens that belong to both the landscape and the people who live in them
For over twenty-five years I've been designing, restoring and managing gardens throughout Northumberland and the Borders. Every project begins in the same way: by understanding the character of the place, the people who will use it and how the garden can become a natural extension of both.
Whether it's a contemporary coastal garden, a country estate or a small town courtyard, my aim is always to create beautiful, lasting spaces that continue to evolve with time.
My Journey
My route into garden design has been anything but conventional.
Born and raised in East Yorkshire, I've always been happiest outdoors. Before settling in Northumberland, I spent years travelling throughout the UK and New Zealand, exploring coastlines, mountains and wild landscapes. I filled my time kayaking, climbing, walking, surfing, camping and photographing the natural world, always fascinated by the landscapes around me and the wildlife they supported.
Eventually, curiosity led me back into education, where I studied Land Management & Conservation before completing a degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography. Looking back, I wasn't changing direction, I was simply trying to understand the science behind the landscapes I already loved.
That combination of practical experience, scientific understanding and creative thinking continues to influence every garden I design today.
Northumberland
In 2003 I moved to Northumberland with one simple ambition: to build a career creating gardens.
I immediately fell in love with the Cheviot Hills, the dramatic coastline and the ever-changing landscapes. It felt like home.
From those early days, local clients placed their trust in me and gave me the opportunity to develop gardens of every size and style. Along the way I've been fortunate to build lasting relationships with talented local craftsmen, contractors and clients, many of whom I've continued to work alongside for years.
Those relationships remain one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
My Garden
"My garden is my sketchbook."
In 2017 I was fortunate enough to buy my own home in the Glen Valley at Kirknewton, overlooking the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland National Park.
The garden has become my own sketchbook.
It's where I experiment with new planting combinations, observe how gardens evolve through the seasons and continue learning. Every year it changes a little more, providing inspiration that naturally finds its way into the gardens I create for my clients.
Gardening isn't simply my profession. It's how I choose to live.
My Approach
Every successful garden begins with observation.
Understanding the ground beneath your feet, the climate, the surrounding landscape and how the light changes throughout the seasons is just as important as understanding the people who will spend time there.
No two gardens should ever be the same.
I enjoy combining strong structure with naturalistic planting, creating spaces that feel established, relaxed and perfectly suited to their surroundings. Whether I'm restoring a mature estate garden or designing a contemporary coastal landscape from scratch, each project is carefully tailored to its setting.
I also believe that the best results come from collaboration. Working alongside a trusted team of skilled local contractors allows every project to be delivered with care, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Over twenty-five years' practical experience covering every stage of a project, including:
Garden design
Project management
Garden restoration
Planting design
Estate gardens
Contemporary gardens
Country and town gardens
Garden rooms
Wildlife-friendly planting
Contractor coordination and leadership
From initial ideas through to the final planting, every project is approached with the same care, integrity and attention to detail.
Experience
Why I Love Gardening.
People often ask why I've stayed passionate about gardening for so many years.
For me, it's the endless opportunity to learn.
Nature is constantly changing. Every season brings new challenges, new ideas and fresh inspiration. No two gardens, no two clients and no two years are ever quite the same.
That's what keeps the work exciting.
Creating a successful garden means understanding the nature of the land, the plants, the climate and, most importantly, the people who will enjoy it for years to come.