The initial instruction at Chy-an-Gwydh was to build a raised deck in the pool area to increase the usable area around the swimming pool. The house was a new build when we began work on the deck with the whole house surrounded by simple gravel and stepping stones which made the outdoor spaces unattractive and harsh underfoot. After consulting with the owners we submitted a design to revamp all the outside spaces. The swimming pool area is paved in Indian Sandstone with cement mortar rendered walls. The retaining wall features integrated planters and wooden bench seating. A slate tiled outside shower was also included.

The sloping nature of the site has meant that there are several meandering flights of steps around the garden. The design has meant that the main patio area, of Copper Slate paving, is accessed through large bi-fold doors which, when open, give the feel of bringing the outdoor space into the lounge. A bbq built in to the retaining wall brings interest to the area. With young children the flow of the garden was an important consideration to allow the use of scooters and bicycles around the house. The planting is architectural in nature which enhances the strong lines of the Cedar construction of the house.

Gwel-an-Mor is an ongoing project redeveloping an established garden. The focus of the work being undertaken is to design and build areas around this large sloping garden for entertaining guests and to create usable outdoor areas for cooking, relaxing and generally enjoying the well planted creekside environment.

The work completed to date has involved the construction of a new Delabole slate patio with stainless steel and glass handrail. Steps have been constructed using Oak sleepers, granite lintels and slate chippings. Oak sleepers have been used extensively to create curved retaining walls in this sloping garden. A circular Hardwood deck has created a large seating area just below the slate patio.

Currently we are working on an entertainment area halfway down the garden with views of Mylor creek. When completed this area will have built in seating, a large deck with dining table covered by a cantilevered free standing pergola, a large built in bbq and firepit area.