Penarth Marina Project

A low-maintenance courtyard with coastal character

Overlooking the river and Cardiff Bay, this small courtyard garden was redesigned for a retired couple looking to enjoy outdoor living in their new home. The brief was for a paved, low-maintenance space with room for dining, occasional barbecues, reading, and painting. Coastal character and sustainability were key themes, along with the desire to incorporate existing pots and furniture.

Following early sketches and consultation, we developed a final plan featuring light-toned, slip-resistant paving to brighten the north-facing space, with edging and detailing inspired by driftwood and pebbled shorelines. The design allows for flexible furniture arrangements and includes carefully positioned beds for low-maintenance planting, mainly in containers, with options for creeping groundcovers to soften edges. A mirror on the northern fence, solar lighting, and a small shed were all considered to enhance practicality and atmosphere, while the reuse of existing gravel and locally sourced materials supported the clients’ sustainability goals.

We are now in the process of connecting the clients with a trusted local contractor to carry the design through to construction.

Initial Sketches

As part of the concept design development for the garden, two distinct layout options have been explored to respond to the client's brief and the site’s context. Both schemes are guided by a shared material palette and planting approach, while offering different spatial experiences and design intentions.

Two hand-drawn general arrangement sketches have been produced – Option A and Option B – each supported by a complementary material and planting palette. These drawings illustrate alternative layout strategies and material uses, allowing for discussion and refinement of the preferred direction.

Sketch Plan A

Perspective for Plan A

Sketch Plan B

Perspective for Plan B

Final Drawing

General Arrangement Plan

The final GA plan refines the preferred design option, integrating client feedback and spatial adjustments to create a balanced, functional, and visually engaging garden layout. It defines the arrangement of key elements such as pathways, seating, planting beds, and built features, providing a clear framework for the detailed design and construction phases.

Dimentions Plan

The dimensions plan provides accurate measurements for all key elements of the design, including paving areas, planting beds, structures, and boundary treatments. This drawing ensures clarity for setting out on site and acts as a technical reference for contractors during the construction process.

Planting Plan

The planting plan builds on the concept palette, offering a rich mix of textures, seasonal interest, and structure. It includes a combination of evergreen framework plants, perennials, groundcovers, and feature species, selected to suit the site conditions and aesthetic goals. Each plant has been positioned to support spatial definition and year-round appeal.