5 minute read
A WEEKEND AWAY AT... Settle
from Yvfhgg
by elloco2019
A swing bench in a quiet corner of this country garden is shaded by a pergola by Ali Paterson Garden Design
This project by David Loy combines a traditional garden with a contemporary steel pergola, softened by vibrant perennials
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PLANTING
In a more traditional setting, adorn a pergola with climbing plants for additional screening and a natural aesthetic. ‘Training wires up the posts can help twining plants establish quickly. If you ’ re planting in paving, make sure that the climbers have plenty of space to root into, ’ explains John Wyer, CEO of garden design company Bowles & Wyer. Supporting wires may need to be considered for both the horizontals and verticals.
For plants, ‘ wisteria is robust and long lived with scented blossom; Akebia quinata, or chocolate vine, has scented purple flowers; or try the perennials Humulus lupulus ‘Aureus ’ (golden hop) or the flame nasturtium Tropaeolum speciosum, ’ suggests John Wyer.
‘In the long term, many climbing plants can get very big, ’ says Barry Chambers of Garden Design Guru. Consider less vigorous varieties so there is less need for pruning in the future. ‘A deciduous climber, such as Jasmine officinale, will also allow a lot more light through in winter, which may be preferable, ’ he adds.
MATERIALS
A pergola might be an elegant thin metal frame or a characterful oak structure. ‘Most traditional pergolas are constructed from wood with the horizontals having shaped ends that extend beyond the frame. A more modern look can be achieved by squaring up the ends and corners, or the pergola could be constructed out of metal to give it a clean, modern feel. Corten steel will develop a beautiful deep-orange rusty patina, or powder-coated or painted metal will create a more slick finish, ’ suggests Fi Boyle.
‘If you are using timber posts, it is best to use a steel shoe, otherwise the post may rot at soil level. For an Arts and Crafts look, try using brick columns with timber beams, ’ recommends John Wyer.
CREATING ZONES
The use of pergolas to demarcate different parts of the garden is numerous.
to create a transition from a patio area to the lawn, ’ suggests architect and garden designer Ali Paterson. It can provide a view through to the garden beyond, while creating a feeling of privacy and separation over a dining area. ‘Hanging a simple outdoor pendant from the pergola will bring light and extend the use of the space into the evening, ’ suggests Harriet Farlam.
As structures, pergolas can create a sense of division ‘but without creating a blunt delineation of the space ’ , says Jo Thompson. They can also link the house with the garden. ‘Sometimes the wall of a building can look a little stark or severe, but a pergola helps ground it, ’ explains John Wyer.
VERTICAL INTEREST
Pergolas undeniably bring height and character. ‘The style of the garden will dictate the most appropriate form and whether you want to set it within planting. In a modern space with a clean, minimal feel, surrounding it with planting may not be so appropriate, ’ says Fi Boyle. ‘Often we plant trees around a pergola to help anchor it to the garden. A row of pleached trees or a tree positioned either side will bring a softness to the structure, ’ says Harriet Farlam.
SIZE OF STRUCTURE
‘When including a pergola in your garden design, the size of it is important. Make sure it won ’t overwhelm the garden but that it will also be large enough to be practical, ’ advises John Wyer.
A common mistake is to make a pergola too narrow and too low. ‘The size and dimensions of the uprights and overall frame will need to be considered carefully as these really alter the feel of it, ’ explains Fi Boyle.
Take into account, too, the additional space required by planting. ‘One should anticipate the bulk of mature climbers, whether this be a rambling rose or winter jasmine, which might need two to three feet clearance underneath, ’ explains Ali Paterson.
‘Climbers needs their “feet in the shade, head in the sun ” , ’ says John Wyer
Choose a colour that will blend in beautifully with your planting scheme
OUR EXPERT SAYS... B A PERGOLA E CONNECTED SHOULD WITH AND INTEGRAL TO THE SPACE
HARRIET FARLAM, GARDEN DESIGNER
The rustic retired goods carriages have been lovingly restored One of three retired railway carriages, each with their own deck and firepit
Aweekendat Settle
LUXURIOUS RUSTIC STAYS NESTLED IN REMOTE NORFOLK PARKLAND
Settle is a word defined in the dictionary as becoming quiet and calm; relaxed and comfortable; finding a place to be. Such descriptive terms were carefully considered when Jo and John Morfoot began creating their unique venture which offers guests an opportunity to slow down, unwind and reset.
The idea for such a tranquil haven came to the couple several years ago, combining their love of nature and the great outdoors with an appreciation for a simple, honest aesthetic. Settle lies within 30 acres of parkland in Breckland in south Norfolk, an area steeped in ancient history. It was also here, nearly 50 years ago, that a young John and his father – who ’d bought the land with a friend at auction – planted 50 species of trees, established a wildlife meadow and dug a small lake to accompany a larger one (John has since created a third).
Today, this is the perfect haven for guests to experience true slow living, staying in characterful accommodation. The Cabin is a timber-clad lakeside retreat combining natural materials with mid-century furnishings, a crackling wood burner and a show-stopping stone egg bath. Then there are three retired railway goods carriages providing the cosiest of stays – each has a wood fire, bijou kitchen, bathroom, and deck complete with firepit. Finally, stargazers will love the Canvas Camp which comprises two luxury safari tents boasting vintage furnishings, a super-comfy double bed and electricity. A communal outdoor kitchen and shower block is close by.
Jo and John have collaborated with local food producers and artisans to provide everything from the delicious hampers that await guests on arrival to the premium crafted items found in all the accommodation, some of which is available to buy in the charming little shop on site.
Far from the crowds and everyday demands, this unique rural enclave promises to work its soothing magic.
