This historical 400 acre Oxfordshire landscape was originally designed by Capability Brown, a fairly daunting prospect. I was mindful to retain the centuries old conical Yews and classical structures of the Partarres, while gently introducing some contemporary immersive water and planting elements. In terms of enjoying the geometry and composition of the Parterres, historically these were best viewed from above, looking down from upper windows to really appreciate the sheer scale of each.
What I wanted to do was bring real sensory pleasure to being amongst these, as well as the traditional pleasure of viewing from above. In terms of garden history from the time of gardens such as these, there was much appreciation of order, control and form. Immersive experience came mainly in the form of a tall hedge maze. I developed the idea of immersion and played with the elements of water and fire at the heart of the design.
Email: martha@marthakrempel.com