Rural

An exposed, hilltop garden design in Westerham, Kent, simplifying complex site levels to create usable spaces and planting-led terraces with far-reaching views.

Westerham Garden Design – A Simplified Hilltop Garden with Expansive Views

My first meeting with the client for this hilltop garden in Westerham, Kent, was memorable for all the wrong reasons — and immediately clarified the need for change. Positioned on the crest of a hill with spectacular views across the North Downs, the garden had enormous potential. Unfortunately, it was cluttered with abandoned religious icons, statuary, and assorted objets d’art left behind by the previous owner, leaving the landscape feeling chaotic and unresolved.

The house itself had already been thoughtfully remodelled, creating a contemporary interior while retaining character in the external elevations. The garden, however, lagged behind. It was awkwardly divided into too many levels, poorly connected, and highly exposed to wind, making it difficult to use or enjoy despite its exceptional setting.

Our design approach focused on simplification and clarity. By reworking the ground levels, we created a series of flatter, more generous spaces that feel usable, comfortable, and visually calm. The layout now supports movement through the garden while allowing the views to take centre stage.

Rather than relying heavily on retaining walls, we introduced exuberantly planted banks to manage level changes in a more sustainable and visually softer way. This planting-led approach not only reduced the need for hard infrastructure but also added depth, texture, and seasonal interest.

Bold sweeps of perennials and ornamental grasses were used to animate the space, creating a rich foreground that sits comfortably against the vast backdrop of the landscape beyond. The scale of the planting was carefully judged to balance the openness of the site without competing with the views.

The result is a confident, contemporary garden that feels grounded, generous, and finally worthy of its remarkable hilltop position.