LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

Butter Wakefield Garden Design LTD

CLAY PAVERS

Ancienne Belgique Oyster Grey

PROCESSING

herringbone and stretcher bond

Photos: © Jason Ingram

Butter Wakefield: “We designed this small split-level garden in Chelsea to link the kitchen floor, a pale Limestone, on the inside to the lower ground paving on the outside. We needed to create a further connection between the two levels, so we specified the hugely versatile Ancienne Belgique Oyster Grey clay pavers on the retaining walls, step risers and upper terrace, using the Limestone on the step treads and copings.

We added an additional clay paver detail below the copings at the top of the two retaining walls for supplementary amusement. We wanted to include as much pattern and texture as possible on the upper terrace, so we specified stack bonded header courses, herringbone and stretcher bond patterns throughout.

The bricks lend themselves beautifully to this detail work and immediately capture and create moments of interest and delight in small intimate spaces at ground level. We were particularly delighted with the central herringbone circle within the square header course of bricks. The gaps between the outer edge of the circle and the corners of the square allowed us auxiliary areas to plant which brought the green of the garden into focus further, pulling the planting away from the boundary walls. The clay pavers also help to create a pleasing balance to this very symmetrical scheme and look most attractive when viewed from above.

All the Vande Moortel Ancienne Belgique Oyster Grey clay pavers were laid without grouting so that rainwater could permeate through to the ground beneath, avoiding water run. We conscientiously chose plants that benefited pollinating insects, luring them into the garden. The water feature provides a self-sustaining ecosystem in the garden, welcoming wildlife into the urban space.”