DANIEL COMBES GARDEN DESIGN
LONDON Garden Design
Our garden design commissions regularly take us from our studio on the border between Dorset and Wiltshire, throughout the UK, and we are increasingly being appointed to work on London garden design projects.
London is full of green spaces, each with its own unique charm. Whether you prefer manicured botanical gardens, tranquil Japanese landscapes, or wild urban escapes, there’s inspiration in every green space throughout the capital, and a garden for everyone in this historic city.
London’s gardens are more than just green spaces, they are reflections of history, culture, and contemporary design.
Whether a compact urban courtyard, a classic Georgian terrace, or a sprawling suburban plot, designing a garden in London requires a balance between aesthetics, functionality, and the city’s unique environmental conditions.
London’s temperate climate creates an excellent environment for a wide range of plants, but urban pollution, compact soil, and occasional droughts require thoughtful planning.
Designing a London garden is about balancing beauty with practicality, tradition with modernity, and nature with sustainability. Whether you prefer a structured landscape, a wild and romantic retreat, or a space for socialising, thoughtful design can transform even the smallest urban garden into an oasis.
Carefully selecting appropriately resilient plants is key to creating a sustainable London garden. London’s urban environment demands plants that can withstand pollution, shade from buildings, and occasional dry spells.
Hardy plants like ferns, lavender, and hydrangeas thrive in urban conditions. Soil health is generally poor and compacted, while water conservation can been enhanced through selecting drought tolerant plants and incorporating rain water harvesting.
Many central London homes have limited outdoor space, making it essential to think creatively. The use of trellises, wall planters, green roofs or living walls add lush greenery without sacrificing floor space.
The City of london
London is famous for its historic landmarks, bustling streets, and cultural attractions, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
Kew Gardens, officially known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world. Spanning over 300 acres, it boasts an incredible collection of over 50,000 plant species. Highlights include the Palm House, the Temperate House (the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world), and the Treetop Walkway, which offers breathtaking views of the garden from above.
Nestled within Holland Park, the Kyoto Garden is a hidden gem offering a slice of Japan in the heart of London. This serene space features a picturesque waterfall, vibrant maple trees, and a koi pond. It was a gift from the city of Kyoto in 1991, symbolising the friendship between Japan and the UK.
Founded in 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is one of London’s oldest botanical gardens. Originally created for the study of medicinal plants, it now houses over 5,000 species, including rare herbs, edible plants, and exotic trees. The Garden of Medicinal Plants is a must-see for anyone interested in the healing power of nature.
One of London’s best-kept secrets, The Garden at 120 is a stunning rooftop garden in the heart of the city. Offering spectacular views of London’s skyline, including the Tower of London and the Shard, this free-to-enter garden is filled with lush greenery, wisteria, and reflective pools.
Regent’s Park is one of London’s most beautiful parks, and its rose garden is a highlight. The Queen Mary’s Gardens boast over 12,000 roses, creating a breathtaking spectacle in summer. The scent of the roses combined with the picturesque layout makes this one of the most romantic spots in the city.
Set within the ruins of St. Dunstan in the East Church, this garden is unlike any other in London which was bombed during WWII, it has been transformed into a peaceful green space with climbing ivy, stone archways, and a mystical atmosphere. It’s a great place for photography, quiet contemplation, or a unique picnic spot.
Hidden inside the Barbican Centre, this conservatory is London’s second-largest and home to over 2,000 species of plants, including towering palms, cacti, and ferns. The blend of lush greenery and brutalist architecture creates a unique atmosphere.
From the formal symmetry of Georgian gardens to the relaxed charm of cottage-style planting, London’s gardening heritage is rich and diverse.
If you have a London garden design project that you wish to discuss, please contact us