Our landscape architect team worked with a contractor client on this 0.20-hectare residential development. Initially, the landscape architect reviewed and commented on a landscape design prepared by another landscape architecture practice. We then developed a detailed construction package to support procurement and deliver the external works in line with the end client’s requirements.
This residential development centres on a courtyard space enclosed by dwellings. To the east, the buildings rise to a single storey. In contrast, the western edge reaches five storeys. Furthermore, a seventh-floor penthouse occupies the north-east corner of the development. Our landscape architect services focused exclusively on the ground-floor courtyard.
The courtyard features a perimeter walkway surrounding a series of planting beds and a central lawn. In addition, the design includes several seating areas, a pergola-covered picnic space, and a water feature in the north-west corner.
The entire courtyard sits on a structural slab above a lower-ground-floor car park and service area. Therefore, the landscape architect team carefully incorporated ventilation requirements into the design. We detailed and integrated the ventilation outlets within bespoke in-situ seating units. As a result, the courtyard maintained both its functionality and visual quality.
The Local Authority and end client requested small trees and large multi-stem shrubs within the courtyard planting scheme. Consequently, the landscape architect worked closely with the structural engineer from an early stage. Together, the team reviewed and agreed the structural loading requirements for the slab. In addition, we specified brick-clad reinforced concrete planters to provide long-term durability and structural stability. This coordinated approach ensured the landscape design satisfied both engineering and client requirements.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: 4a & 5
Client: Ellmer Construction
Architect: Assael Architecture