DANIEL COMBES GARDEN DESIGN
DEVON Garden Design
Our studio is located in Semley, on the border between Wiltshire and Dorset; our work regularly takes us throughout the South West region, designing gardens in Devon and the neighbouring county of Cornwall.
One of the joys of designing gardens in Devon is the sheer variety of landscapes. The county is home to lush river valleys, rugged moorlands, and coastal cliffs, each presenting unique design opportunities.
The fertile soil allows for a diverse plant palette, from Mediterranean-style drought-tolerant planting in South Devon to lush, woodland-inspired schemes in the wetter, wilder areas of Exmoor and Dartmoor.
The mild climate is a bonus, allowing exotic and tender plants to thrive. In coastal gardens, we can incorporate striking palms, agaves, and succulents, while inland, we have the freedom to experiment with classic English garden favourites like roses, delphiniums, and hydrangeas.
Devon’s famously hilly terrain can make access tricky, and designing for slopes requires careful thought; whether creating terraced planting schemes, incorporating retaining walls, or using clever pathways to ensure usability.
While the climate is mild, the county also sees high rainfall. Drainage solutions are key, and choosing the right plants for wet or boggy areas is essential. Coastal gardens have to contend with salt-laden winds, meaning resilient planting and windbreak strategies are a must.
Local materials such as granite, slate, or cob create a sense of place. Traditional Devon hedge banks, packed with wildflowers and native shrubs, are a beautiful and functional feature we often work into designs.
Devon’s rural nature allows us to design gardens with sustainability in mind; whether through rainwater harvesting, composting, or organic gardening principles.
Despite the challenges, being a garden designer in Devon is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s a secluded country retreat or a small urban courtyard, each project is an opportunity to create something unique and meaningful.
The possibilities when designing gardens in Devon are as rich and varied as the county itself; blending creativity, practicality, and deep respect for the landscape.
The County of DEVON
Devon boasts an array of stunning gardens that captivate visitors; from historic estates to contemporary landscapes.
Nestled in a picturesque valley in North Devon, RHS Garden Rosemoor spans 65 acres and showcases a diverse range of plantings. Themed gardens include the vibrant Hot Garden, the serene Woodland Garden, and the meticulously designed Formal Garden.
Located in Buckland Monachorum, The Garden House set within the remnants of a 16th-century vicarage, the 10-acre garden features terraced layouts, a camellia walk, and a lower terrace with perennial borders. The Walled Garden, with its five terraces, is a highlight, providing a blend of formal and informal planting styles.
Spanning nearly 300 years of horticultural history, Bicton Park Botanical Gardens in East Budleigh is a Grade I listed garden home to many rare plants from across the globe. Visitors can explore 63 acres of gardens, including the beautiful Palm House built in the 1820s and a quirky shell house.
A hidden gem in the East Devon countryside, Burrow Farm Gardens offers a serene escape for garden lovers. With a variety of planting styles and landscapes, it provides a delightful experience for visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Wildside Garden, transformed over 25 years from a flat 3-acre plot, showcases the visionary work of Keith and Ros Wiley. The garden features diverse landscapes, including narrow paths, shady dells, mounds, and sunny pools, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.
Designed by renowned landscape gardener Humphry Repton, the gardens at Hotel Endsleigh offer a glimpse into 19th-century landscaping artistry. Guests can wander through woodlands, along rivers, and past cascades, all set against the backdrop of the scenic Devon countryside.
Situated near Brixham, Coleton Fishacre Garden is a 24-acre garden surrounding a 1920s Arts and Crafts-style house. The garden features exotic planting, reflecting the microclimate of the south Devon coast, and offers stunning sea views.
Each of these gardens reflects the rich horticultural heritage and natural beauty of Devon.
If you have a Devon garden design project that you wish to discuss, please contact us