2017 BALI Award Winning Project

The aesthetic of the design for this new contemporary house was intended to reflect the organic flowing lines of the house, creating a naturalistic and informal landscape.

Extensive excavations, earthmoving and changes of level were required to prepare the accurate levels needed. Minimal topsoil was on site so all planting areas were excavated to 400mm to receive imported soil. Accurate marking out was necessary at every stage to avoid any unnecessary excavation to areas of new paths and hardstanding. To achieve the required levels, in the region of 3,300 tons of mostly chalk material was hauled away and around 1,700 tons of topsoil/compost was imported. Initial setting out was particularly challenging due to the somewhat unusual shape of the house.

The large deck at the rear of the house was the first item to be marked out and constructed. This was followed by the construction of the pond, paths, steps and further decking. The banks and the lawn to the rear of the house were also worked on simultaneously. A new wildflower meadow was created with mown paths around the perimeter together with a kitchen garden comprising retaining walls with basalt paving and raised planters. The final phase was around the garage with retaining walls, construction of the new drive and a new position from the highway.

The whole project was undertaken by our own staff and working directors without any sub-contractors or self employed labour. Our own plant, machinery and equipment was used throughout.

Whilst detailed working drawings were supplied by the designers, any day to day issues were addressed directly with the clients who had a great interest and involvement from day one and we built an excellent working relationship with them

Client's testimonial

"Our project was complex and involved the complete landscaping over a period of six months of an overgrown, neglected two-acre plot. The work included a large pond, many changes of levels, curved decking, extensive borders and gravel paths, retaining walls, steps, basalt paving and a gravel drive. The Baikie team had to work around the building of a new house when the builders, electricians and plumbers, etc were all still on site."

"Peter and Howard who led the team were extremely easy to work with. They developed a detailed programme of work which took account of all the other activities on site so everything ran smoothly. We provided a detailed specification but Peter and Howard always consulted us whenever there was ambiguity. They were very approachable and nothing was too much trouble (including giving us regular updates whenever we arrived on site)."

"We were impressed that Baikie have all their own equipment and machinery so there was never any delay waiting for hired plant to arrive. The project was completed on time, to an extremely high standard and to our agreed budget, despite there being a number of unexpected challenges along the way."

"An absolutely first class service (both workmanship and in dealing with us as the client) and we thoroughly recommend them. We were not surprised that Baikie’s won a national BALI Award even though we know how difficult this is."

"Our garden is a delight: we enjoy it every day in every season and we are extremely grateful to Peter and his team for their part in making our dream become a reality."