A stylish, newly built house, constructed from locally quarried Cotswold stone needed a garden to match. A gentle curved layout centred around a generous lawn created rooms to divide the space and introduced areas to be discovered. Focal points around the garden encourage exploration beyond the terrace area. Road noise and prevailing wind were issues which needed addressing, so a simple water feature with a soothing splash effectively masks traffic noise. A shelter-belt of trees and hedging filter the wind and ornamental grasses take advantage of the breeze by providing movement throughout the planting scheme. It was important for the garden to be welcoming to wildlife, so a bird-friendly mixed native hedge featuring flowering and fruiting varieties was chosen to mask the perimeter. Pebbles within the water feature give birds a foothold from which to drink. Herbaceous plants provide nectar for insects and long-lasting seed-heads supply more food for the birds. A wildflower meadow planted under the trees creates a relaxed area to nature-watch. New raised beds filled with lush planting support a floating cedar bench providing an enclosed and scented seating nook. A large and productive vegetable garden was created using raised oak beds, including a National Trust shed and large cold frame. This area is shielded from view with a generous curved sweep of beech hedging.