Just a mile from the rugged, storm-battered cliffs of Cornwall’s north coast, this modest fisherman’s cottage called for an ornamental garden full of character and resilience.

The planting was designed to thrive in challenging coastal conditions, enduring salt-laden winds, heavy rain and free-draining, stony soil. A combination of Agapanthus, Knautia and Erysimum provides long-lasting summer colour, while hardy exotics such as Dicksonia antarctica, Trachycarpus and towering spires of Echium pininana introduce a bold, tropical character that celebrates Cornwall’s unique subtropical climate.

The layout extends the client’s journey through the space, concealing the garden’s boundaries and creating a sense of depth and discovery. Intimate seating areas are arranged to offer comfort in full sun, dappled shade or cool shelter, while densely planted beds soften the structure and screen two large firewood stores that supply the cottage through the colder months.

The result is a richly layered and resilient coastal garden that feels both traditional and adventurous, a reflection of its setting and spirit.