Nestled opposite the medieval almshouse that is St Cross, Winchester, is this property and gardens. I have had the privilege of knowing the owners and re- developing the garden for last 2 years. When I first arrived at the garden it was rather being taking over by giant Cornus alba sibirica, bind weed and an unsuitably steep bank. There was little option but to get to work, considering everything to ensure I achieved the serene and elegant result the owners so desperately desired. I started by removing the Cornus along with any other harsh, unsuitable or unsightly plants. I then set out and planted a bursting bouquet of new plants to bring colour, texture, structure and interest all year round. I planted those beautiful deep purples and reds of the Acer palmatum's and the striking purple of the Solanum to draw the eye down the garden. The Acer platanoides 'Drummondii' is borrowed from next door and isn't it spectacular. The wisteria and rose on the pergola are existing however I bought them back to life in true splendour with careful pruning and care. The area around the outside dining area was originally quite hard with the brick wall and solid dark green of the Taxus. I wanted the area to look effortless however it takes quite a lot of effort to achieve just that. I chose plants that would soften the area but bring colour and fragrance. I achieved this with the use of grasses such as Stipa 'Pony tails' and Festuca 'Intence Blue' pairing it with plants such as Gura, Agapanthus and Rosa 'Kew Gardens' which are just beginning to show. The result isn't a garden as one might describe but more of a haven for the owners to come out to sit, relax and contemplate away all of life's little niggles and worries.