Paddington
The brief for this small London courtyard was to create a sanctuary suitable for both entertaining and meditation and which should in some way reference my client’s interest in Ayurvedic medicine.
I chose to create an elemental outside space that reflects the ayurvedic concept of good health being achieved by the harmonious balance of certain elements within the individual. I was also inspired by the comfort and luxury often found in Ayurvedic treatment spas.
Phyllostachys nigra draws us sensually to an awareness of the air, also providing verticality and required screening. The specification of corten steel for the retaining walls and rill remind us of fire turning to earth as the steel rusts and darkens in colour over time. The rill emerges from ferns and forest grasses dropping into a dark reflective pool that wraps around the end of the steel wall.
The main structural intervention was to build a new rendered wall to the rear of the garden with a built in alcove which would house an acid etched steel “canvas” inspired by the common practice in India of ritual marking to the landscape. Tea lights are placed on the ledge of the alcove.
