Totteridge Garden Design, London N20

Luxury Multi-Level Family Garden with Outdoor Living Features

In the leafy residential area of Totteridge N20, Concept Landscape Architects were appointed to design a bespoke private residential garden on a gently sloping site. The brief called for a family-friendly space that was elegant, functional, and layered with outdoor living elements to suit a modern lifestyle.

Through intelligent use of levels, planting, and circulation, the design transforms a challenging topography into a series of compartmentalised zones—each with a unique character and function. The result is a seamless integration of structure and nature, crafted for year-round enjoyment.

A Terraced Garden for Modern Family Living

The garden’s natural sloping site provided an opportunity rather than a limitation. Concept’s response was to create a composition of terraced levels, each offering a distinct purpose—whether for socialising, relaxing, playing, or quiet reflection.

Key design features include:

• A decked upper terrace, subtly hidden and private, ideal for quiet mornings or evening drinks

• A dining pergola that provides both shade and shelter, becoming the central hub for family gatherings and entertaining

• A custom fire pit set within its own paved zone, offering a cosy year-round destination

• A refined water feature that provides tranquil sound and visual calm, balancing the garden’s social elements

• An event lawn, proportioned to anchor the entire composition and offer versatility for play or informal hosting

Each terrace is connected by carefully engineered transitions—steps, paths, and planters—designed to be both practical and sculptural, enhancing movement and visual interest.

Designed Around Nature: Preserving Mature Trees

A key constraint and opportunity in this project was the presence of established mature trees. Rather than disrupt them, Concept wove the design around their placement, allowing their canopy to define the garden structure and microclimate.

These trees serve not only as beautiful focal points but also as natural anchors that shape each terrace’s use and enclosure. Their presence enhances biodiversity, provides shade, and adds a timeless quality to the newly introduced elements.

The garden plan respects root protection zones and uses low-impact construction methods to ensure long-term tree health. For guidance on tree preservation best practices, see the Arboricultural Association.

Zoning and Flow: The Art of Garden Compartmentalisation

Compartmentalisation is one of the garden’s strongest assets. Each space feels independent but visually connected—achieved through:

• Subtle level changes

• Harmonious material use

• Planting continuity

• Strategic sightline management

The design encourages movement while creating restful pause points, making the garden feel expansive, even though it is modest in size. This zoning strategy reflects contemporary garden trends such as multi-functional outdoor rooms, as recommended by the Society of Garden Designers.

A Garden to Grow With

This garden is more than a seasonal showpiece. It has been designed for longevity and adaptability, offering flexibility as family needs evolve. From children’s play to formal entertaining, the zones offer spatial richness and practical versatility.

The event lawn becomes a theatre for activities, while the fire pit creates winter interest. The pergola ensures year-round dining opportunities, whether under the sun or stars. And the mature trees provide permanence, scale, and atmosphere no new planting could replicate.

Totteridge Garden Design: Why It Stands Out

What makes this Totteridge garden design exceptional is its balance of restraint and richness. It demonstrates how well-considered levels and planting can unlock the potential of a sloping site—turning challenges into standout features.

Concept Landscape Architects’ ability to integrate natural assets, structure, and human use results in a garden that feels both crafted and natural, luxurious yet grounded. It’s a prime example of the power of landscape-led design in shaping premium residential environments.