Coastal House

This steeply sloped residential garden in Kent is inspired by the simplicity of Japanese & Scandinavian design: Simple, elegant and beautiful in its form & functionality.

The Brief

Turn this steep, awkward and difficult to use space into a garden for work & relaxation. Add an artists studio, more room for dining & entertaining and kick-start a new planting scheme for the new home-owners to enjoy. Reflect the mid-century style of the house.

The Garden

A garden of levels, with more usable space for life outside. A new path with steps leads through a simple garden, inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian asymmetry. A bespoke cabin at the rear of the garden provides ample space for my client to work from home.

Finished Garden
Finished Garden
Finished Cabin
Planting The Garden
Corten Steel Steps
Impression One
Impression Two
Impression Three
Concept One
Concept Two
Concept Three
Early Concept
Concept Two/B

This garden was completed in June 2026

“Mark absolutely transformed our sad 80s garden into something spectacular. He unflinchingly followed our tricky brief and we loved the design process, and Mark getting to know our likes and dislikes. He created something that fits perfectly with our house and our own style. He also managed the project seamlessly with our landscapers and went above and beyond to make our garden magical. We couldn't recommend him enough!”

— Client Feedback

Project credits

Design & Design Management | Mark Hardy Design

Landscaping Contractor | Hythe Garden Landscapes

Cabin Build | Harris & Brown Cabins

Tree & Plant Supply | Provender Nurseries

Paving | London Stone

Electric works | ME Electrical

Family House

Historic House