Designing a Personal Garden Retreat Before the Move

Robin and Sharon first visited us while still in the process of purchasing their new home. They were eager to incorporate a bespoke garden retreat into their future plans and wanted to explore design ideas and pricing early on—a service we’re always happy to offer.

Even from our initial meeting, it was clear this would be a special project. Robin, a retired engineer, brought a deep interest in the technical side of our builds, while Sharon was inspired by the aesthetic elements—envisioning a serene, stylish space full of charm.

A Collaborative Design Journey

We love working with clients who are as passionate about the process as we are. With Robin’s precision and Sharon’s artistic vision, we had the perfect combination to create a truly personalized garden retreat. Their involvement made this journey both collaborative and rewarding.

Designing a Rowington-style garden retreat is a thoughtful process. It’s not just about how it looks from the outside, but how it feels and functions inside. Every detail—big or small—must work harmoniously to create a space that complements the home, garden, and lifestyle of its owners.

The Rowington Garden Retreat: Crafted for Style and Comfort

Together with Robin and Sharon, Jackie and I developed a bespoke version of our popular Rowington model. The design featured a canopy, deck, and a side wall to form a framed corner retreat that blends naturally into the garden.

To enhance the approach, we included a 75cm step and a structured canopy, paired with a stylish feature side wall. The layout was carefully curated to add both visual depth and architectural balance.

The focal point of the garden retreat was a wide glazed opening—3.6m French doors with fixed side panels—that filled the garden room with natural light and created a seamless transition to the garden. Two top-hinged windows framed views of Sharon’s carefully curated flower beds, bringing nature right into the heart of the space.

Exterior Materials That Blend with Nature

We chose Argent composite cladding for the exterior, giving the structure a contemporary yet organic appearance. A Spiced Oak deck and matching slatted canopy and side wall added warmth and texture, ensuring the garden retreat blended effortlessly with the surrounding landscape.

An Inviting Interior with Bespoke Finishes

Inside, the attention to detail continued. A feature wall painted in Neptune’s Moss introduced rich, calming tones, perfectly balanced by Silverbirch on the other walls. The flooring—Quick-Step Largo in Cambridge Dark Oak—brought warmth and sophistication, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere throughout the garden retreat.

A Rewarding Experience

Robin and Sharon were a delight to work with—warm, welcoming, and full of great ideas. Their trust and enthusiasm made this a joyful project from beginning to end. We’re incredibly proud to have helped bring their dream garden retreat to life, and we’re grateful for their hospitality throughout the journey.

See the full case study here