The Edge, Devon

A previously tired front border, dominated by gravel and weeds, was transformed into a simple, contemporary planting scheme for a young family.

The brief was to create something that felt modern and considered, while keeping maintenance to a minimum. The planting was kept deliberately simple, centred around a restrained palette of vivid greens and purple, with clipped evergreen Ilex providing structure and a combination of grasses and flowering perennials bringing softness and seasonal interest.

Although low maintenance was important, the garden was also an opportunity to introduce the children to a little more of the natural world. Nectar-rich planting including Salvia, Calamintha, Agapanthus, thyme and Alliums provides a long season of flowers for bees and other pollinators, while a small wildflower area adds a more informal element to the scheme.

The result is a contemporary front garden that feels clean and uncluttered, but still has movement, colour and plenty of life. A relatively simple planting palette gives the garden a strong identity while allowing the plants and the wildlife they attract to become the focus.