This university quad was originally block
planted with Fatsia japonica and Mahonia x
media ‘Charity’. They were 4-5m high and
covered the first-floor windows. It took many
months to persuade the university that
removing everything and starting again with
a fresh approach; one with playful colour that
it would both attract students outside and be
similar in terms of cost to maintain.
There are some fantastically designed gardens
and outdoor spaces created by some very
talented designers but sadly, there are clients
as well as designers that are scared of what
they don’t know or are used to. Life begins
at the edge of your planting zone. Choose
carefully, and don’t be afraid to push the
boundaries!
Andy Kirman
Kirman Design
www.kirmandesign.co.uk
Issue 34 2018 Landscape & Urban Design
19