Residential Estate Landscape Design in Islington, North London

A Modern Landscape for a Private Residential Development

Our practice was commissioned to reimagine and renew the communal landscape of a private residential estate in Islington, North London (N1). The client recognised the lasting value of investing in a high-quality landscape design that would not only address day-to-day functional challenges but also elevate the sense of place, enhance resident wellbeing, and contribute to long-term property value.

The design was developed in close collaboration with the client, who was highly engaged in shaping a brief focused on longevity, robustness, and visual quality. The outcome is a cohesive and modern landscape environment that is now considered integral to the success of the site.

Key Design Features

1. Bespoke Pergola Structures for Privacy and Character

Two custom-designed brick and hardwood pergola structures were introduced to create semi-private outdoor rooms within the shared garden. Built with brick detailing and mortar to match existing architectural elements, these pergolas create moments of enclosure, improve the spatial hierarchy of the open space, and offer shaded places to sit or gather.

These pergolas give a sculptural quality to the landscape and were designed to remain low-maintenance and weather-resilient for decades to come.

2. Japanese-Inspired Central Rock and Gravel Garden

To bring a sense of calm, visual interest, and structure to the central area, we created a Japanese-style rock and gravel garden. This space acts as a contemplative focal point and reinforces the concept of movement through the garden, rather than just passive observation.

The garden uses naturalistic boulders, raked gravel, and textural planting for a modern, Zen-like aesthetic, providing contrast to the surrounding hard surfaces.

3. Hard and Soft Landscaping Integration

The external works involved a coordinated palette of high-quality, long-lasting materials:

• Silver-grey granite paving laid with precision for durability and elegance

• Resin-bound gravel surfacing for smooth transitions and visual warmth

• Brick path edging designed to match existing estate architecture

• Strategically located low-level lighting for safety and ambience

• Robust planting with seasonal interest to soften edges and increase biodiversity

These choices elevate the space visually while also being practical and future-proofed against wear and tear.

4. Secure Cycle Parking and Custom Timber Bin Stores

In line with modern urban design expectations, the project incorporated new secure cycle storage (see guidance from TfL on cycle parking) to promote sustainable transport for residents. The storage units are discreetly placed and framed by planting to minimise visual impact.

Additionally, we designed bespoke timber bin stores that harmonise with the site’s material palette while providing necessary screening and organisation for refuse areas.

Enhancing Accessibility and Everyday Use

Thoughtful attention was given to ensure that the landscape was inclusive for all users. Level thresholds, gently sloping paths, and clearly defined surfaces provide ease of access for wheelchair users and families with prams.

We worked within Building for a Healthy Life principles (Design for Homes) to promote usability, legibility, and healthy outdoor living across the entire estate.

Client and Resident Praise

The completed scheme was highly praised by both the client and residents. It resolved many long-standing operational challenges, such as unclear pathways, lack of storage, and poor lighting. More importantly, it transformed the estate into a cohesive, welcoming, and highly liveable outdoor environment.

The new landscape feels as though it has always belonged, seamlessly blending with the surrounding architecture while setting a new standard for future developments of similar scale and function.

A Model for Urban Landscape Refurbishment

This project demonstrates how landscape architecture can reshape communal life in residential settings. With thoughtful investment and careful detailing, even modest estates can be elevated to create environments that are not only functional and robust but also beautiful and deeply valued by their communities.