The Savills and David Harber Garden

The Savills and David Harber Garden is a celebration of the environmental benefit and beauty of trees, plants and grass in urban spaces. Designed by Andrew Duff, an esteemed member of the Society of Garden Designers, it showcases a host of sustainable features, including bio-diverse large trees, a water purifying wetland area, a green wall and permeable surfaces – and is endorsed by the Environmental Change Institute, part of Oxford University.

The design seeks to create a beautiful, sustainable woodland clearing in a city garden. It is an urban oasis that evokes an atmosphere of stillness and calm. At its centre, a tranquil pool of water plays host to a sculptural installation by David Harber, inspired by the surrounding woodland setting. From a shadow of leaves that flutter on the surface of the water, soars Nyneve, a 3.5 metre bronze shard that reaches high into the trees. The installation is designed to play with light and create beautiful dappled patterns across the water.

Andrew Duff explains: ‘This is tranquil space; a place to feel relaxed and where gardening is relaxed too. There is no pressure to prune, mow or sweep. In fact, this is a garden where maintenance once again becomes a meditative joy. This is a garden for mind, body and soul.’