The Garden Room Studio & Unique Project are delighted to announce that we were awarded GOLD for The Beacon Garden, in association with Lighthouse Poole and Elliots Builders Merchants, at the prestigious BBC Gardeners' World Live Spring Fair 2025 in Beaulieu, Hampshire.
A lighthouse is a beacon. A pillar of the local community, guiding people through smooth and difficult journeys. A familiar marker and comforting sight. We believe that the arts can be a force for change; inspiring, nurturing, and guiding. Lighthouse Poole is the largest multi-arts venue outside of London and it really is an asset to the South West.
The purpose of this garden is to raise awareness of Lighthouse’s charitable status and the work they do in and for the community. More than just an amazing venue, their charitable arm does incredible work in the community supporting, guiding and empowering people through access to the arts across the region. A place of refuge, somewhere to take stock, a supportive and creative environment- different every day.
Ben & Tony, Unique Projects Directors, said:
‘It was a privilege to be invited to assist Matt to put this garden together. Building show gardens brings out the best in our industry with an incredible amount of positivity everywhere you look. Everyone helps each other if needed to help get the gardens ready in time. Everyone involved in building the garden really enjoyed themselves and returned to work the following week feeling motivated with a renewed spring in their step. It really is amazing the power of a show garden to create a good feeling throughout the industry and raise the profile of all businesses involved. We fully understand why exhibitors get the bug for it year after year!"
Across the show weekend, we welcomed a group of artists, The Leisure Painters, who sketched and painted the garden both from within and around our exhibition.
The Beacon Garden, designed by Matt Evans will also provide a hint of what’s to come at Lighthouse as we will be helping plan, design, and construct the outdoor extension to the Beacon café. We hope the Beacon Show Garden informs and ignites conversation around this exciting future project.
A huge thanks to the Beacon suppliers/partners:
If you would like to know more, or have an enquiry for us or one of our suppliers then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us here.
Spring is the perfect time to rejuvenate your garden and prepare your outdoor space for the warmer months ahead. Whether you are looking to enhance your existing garden, introduce new planting schemes, or tackle a larger landscaping project, there are plenty of ways to revitalise your landscape in Devon this season.
Devon’s Winters can be tough on gardens, leaving soil compacted and plants needing a refresh.
Start by clearing debris, aerating your lawn, and adding compost to flower beds.
Check for winter damage on hard landscaping features like patios, decking, and fences.
Devon’s mild climate makes it ideal for early planting. Consider hardy perennials like Primroses, Hellebores, and early flowering shrubs to bring colour back to your landscape.
Now is the time to plant summer bulbs like Lilies, Dahlias and Alliums for a show-stopping garden later in the year.
Spring is an excellent time to refresh patios, pathways, and terraces before they become the heart of summer gatherings.
Replacing tired decking, installing new paving, or adding natural stone elements can completely transform your garden.
Consider drought-resistant plants and mulching to reduce maintenance in the hotter months ahead. Installing a smart irrigation system can help maintain a lush garden without daily watering. These don’t have to be expensive and provide peace of mind in hot periods.
Creating defined zones with porcelain paving, gravel pathways, or raised beds adds structure and ease of upkeep.
Wildlife-friendly planting is becoming more popular, supporting local bees, butterflies, and birds.
Permeable surfaces help with drainage, reducing runoff and protecting the environment.
Incorporating reclaimed materials into garden structures aligns with sustainable landscaping trends in Devon.
Spring is the ideal time to start landscaping in Devon, whether you’re planning a full garden transformation or just making a few seasonal updates. With longer days and improved weather, now is the time to create a garden that thrives throughout the year.
If you need expert advice? We are here to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to discuss your landscaping plans.
Unique Projects is proud to announce its latest collaboration with Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club, installing a new clubhouse terrace and surrounding landscaping in partnership with New Space Architecture.
Our design approach was guided by two key principles: it had to compliment the award-winning clubhouse and be resilient to the coastal environment. The estuary’s exposed setting means materials must withstand both the elements and the wear and tear of cricket studs. To achieve this, we selected a permeable resin surface by Vuba to reflect the natural tones of the foreshore pebbles and sand, CorTen steel edging for its durability and a high-quality porcelain paving from Devon Stone to deliver both function and elegance.
Ben Browning, Unique Projects Director said, “As a Devon-based company, we are passionate about contributing to local projects that enhance community spaces. The opportunity to create a high-quality outdoor facility for such an iconic club, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Budleigh Salterton estuary, is an honour.”
“A project of this scale is only possible through collaboration and we extend our gratitude to our suppliers, New Space Architecture and the dedicated committee at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club for their shared vision and commitment to excellence.”
Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club describes itself as “a community-based sports club providing a fantastic cricketing experience in a safe and inclusive environment in one of the most spectacular locations in the country.” We couldn’t agree more and are proud to contribute to a space that will serve both players, the local community and visitors for years to come.
For more information about Unique Projects and our latest work, visit www.uniqueprojectsdevon.co.uk or contact Ben Browning on 07971 567069 or email [email protected]
In urban environments where outdoor space is often at a premium, roof gardens and terraces offer a unique opportunity to create elevated havens of greenery and tranquility. Think The Highline in New York, Sky Garden in Monument, or the new Crossrail Place Roof Garden at Canary Wharf, these spaces provide an escape from the bustling city. On a smaller scale, they also are a way to incorporate sustainable design and maximise the functionality of your property.
In this article, we discuss the challenges and creative opportunities of designing rooftop spaces, along with tips to help you make the most of your roof garden or terrace.
The first step in creating a roof garden or terrace is ensuring the structure can support the design.
We will always consult with a structural engineer to determine the weight capacity of your rooftop, as the roof loading will guide our choices in materials, plants and features.
Lightweight materials, such as specialist lightweight soil can help minimise the load without compromising aesthetics.
Drainage is another key factor, rooftop spaces must handle rainwater effectively to avoid damage. Considering the drainage system, ensures water flows away efficiently, protecting both your garden and the building.
Our Longchamp Roof Terrace and John Lewis Roof Garden case studies highlight these key considerations.
One of the biggest advantages of a roof garden or terrace is the opportunity to create panoramic views.
Positioning seating areas to establish the best outlooks, whether it’s urban or country life. If privacy is a concern, consider incorporating decorative panels, structural planting or taller planters to create a sense of seclusion without obstructing light.
When space is limited, make every square meter count. Vertical gardening is another excellent solution for adding greenery, while saving room. Living walls, hanging planters, or trellises covered in climbers like jasmine or ivy can bring vibrancy and texture to your rooftop without taking up valuable floor space.
Plants are the heart of any roof garden or terrace, and choosing the right ones is critical. Choose drought-resistant varieties like Sedum, Lavender, and ornamental grasses, which thrive in exposed environments with minimal watering.
Raised beds or large containers are perfect for growing a mix of perennials and evergreen shrubs, creating year-round interest and structure. For a touch of luxury, consider adding small trees like Olive or Acers, which bring shade and elegance to the space.
Beyond plants, roof terraces and gardens benefit from thoughtful features that enhance your outdoor space. Decking, gravel pathways, or tiled areas provide durable surfaces for furniture and foot traffic, while built-in benches or pergolas add functionality and charm.
Lighting is another essential element for creating ambiance and it can transform your roof space into an inviting retreat for evening gatherings. Don’t forget practical additions like storage benches or foldable furniture to make the most of limited space and a firepit or table for ultimate comfort.
Rooftop gardens are not just beautiful, they can also be environmentally considerate. Installing rainwater harvesting systems reduces reliance on mains water, while smart irrigation systems ensure plants receive just the right amount of moisture. Green roofs, in particular, offer ecological benefits by improving insulation, reducing heat absorption and supporting local wildlife diversity. Who knew that some of the best honey in the world comes from cities where hives are placed on key buildings?
Creating a versatile roof garden or terrace is about blending functionality, sustainability, and style to build a space that elevates both your lifestyle and property value. If you are ready to turn your vision into reality, contact us today.
Low maintenance landscaping garden designs are becoming increasingly popular due to people wanting to spend less time on upkeep and longer on enjoying their outdoor space.
This will not only benefit keeping your garden easy to maintain, it can reduce water usage and some sustainable and environmental options enhance both the aesthetic and ecological characteristics of a space.
Here are some ideas on how to create and maintain a garden with minimal attention.
Native plants are perfect for this type of design as they adapt to the ground as well as requiring less water, and support local wildlife.Drought-resistant plants such as lavender, sedum and ornamental grasses, also offer the same ease of care and minimise irrigation needs.
Grass requires mowing, watering and fertilising on a regular basis whereas considering ground cover plants like creeping thyme, clover and moss for shady spots reduces upkeep as well as providing better soil moisture retention and fewer weeds.
Gravel pathways, stone paving and mulch beds can add beauty, while reducing the need for frequent upkeep. By using these durable materials they withstand the elements and require minimal care. For example self binding gravel paths, natural stone stepping stones, mulch paths etc
Raised beds or retaining walls that add structure can make maintenance tasks easier, less requirement to enter the planted areas or stress the back unnecessarily.
Mulching your garden is when you add a thick layer of organic matter (usually manure, compost or bark) to the surface, this will help to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, add nutrients and insulate a plant’s roots. Mulch can be attractive too, so you might want to try decorative bark or wood chip mulch or even a natural stone mulch.
A garden irrigation system combined with water harvesting and smart watering technology helps conserve water by optimising irrigation based on real-time data, reducing reliance on mains water supplies.
Smart systems can monitor soil moisture, weather forecasts and plant needs, ensuring plants receive water only when necessary and minimising waste. Harvesting rainwater also captures naturally available water, reducing demand on treated water resources and helping the UK conserve public water supplies.
This combination supports sustainable water management, reduces costs for homeowners and mitigates the environmental impact of water shortages exacerbated by climate change that most parts of the UK fell victim to in 2023.
Perennials regrow each year and typically require less maintenance than annual plants that last a season. They are better for the environment and are not just a one season wonder!
Some of our RHS trained Horticulturists favourites are-
We will always discuss planting strategies to create a visually pleasing garden year-round which will require minimal replanting.
Garden features like raised beds, containers, or decorative stones can add interest without high upkeep. As well as solar lighting, birdbaths or sculptures that bring a garden to life with little to no maintenance.
Low-maintenance landscaping ideas can help homeowners create beautiful, sustainable gardens that fit into busy lifestyles. A qualified landscape gardener will consider which options align best with your garden’s climate, space, and design. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss your outdoor space with us.
Whether you are looking to improve your garden or completely restructure your outdoor space, a professional landscape gardener will offer a variety of expertise that will ensure your project is completed to your requirements, time and budget.
From access and site issues to building structures and planting, a landscape gardener provides the solutions and results that are essential to a successful project outcome. Furthermore it is essential to ensure that your chosen company has the experience and accreditation to deliver what is required to budget and constructed to best practice. Unique Projects are proud to be fully accredited members of the Association of Professional Landscapers.
There are several reasons why you should use a landscape gardener for your garden or landscape project.
Many gardens present their own challenges, such as poor drainage, difficult access, uneven ground and/or existing layouts. A landscape gardener can identify and solve these issues prior to a project commencement, ensuring there are no ongoing concerns and can build with these considerations in mind. For Unique Projects, this is an area of speciality we thrive on and have built a reputation for taking on and delivering very challenging projects, which have resulted in exemplary schemes.
A prime example was a project in Salcombe, Devon, where even the trees had to be delivered and positioned via a crane due to the cliff edge location and access restrictions…view our case studies page here to find out.
Foundations in any project are the key to its longevity and quality. Having the experience and knowledge of soils, structures, drainage, a landscape gardener will ensure the correct preparation of the ground. This not only saves time and stress, it also offers peace of mind for your garden against future issues.
When you are looking at your garden the plants, shrubs and trees are the key components to soften the hard landscaping and structures and really bring your garden to life. A landscape gardener with horticultural expertise will be able to find you the best quality plants and ensure that the plants will thrive in your garden complimenting the design and layout.
Garden walls, patios, pergolas and even fencing all require the skills of masons and carpenters. Our team has expertise in all of these areas and more and have forged relationships with a trusted network of quality suppliers, such as Arbour Landscape Solutions, Millboard, CED Stone and Allgreen, making sure everything is built to last and is a legacy for future generations.
It may seem easier to design your dream garden yourself, however, a poorly thought-out design can lead to costly issues down the line. A skilled garden designer or Landscape Architect very often works hand-in-hand with a professional landscape firm to ensure every detail is considered. This collaboration informs the construction process, ensuring everything is built efficiently and beautifully. In the long run, this approach saves time, avoids unnecessary costs and results in a garden that works both functionally and aesthetically. There is however always a time for the traditional, be that a lime mortar or plaster, a granite block split traditionally with feathers and wedges or a roof hip with dressed lead detail as above. All of these are just some of the artisanal methods we use year in year out.
We always recommend working with a garden design professional and have had the pleasure of working with several leading UK designers & Landscape Architects. If you would like us to recommend an expert, please contact us here.
In recent years huge advances in methodology and best practice have been developed in the landscape industry whereas in construction much is still based on traditional methods.
A well trained landscaper also understands the soil and the need for correct treatment during and after the build process. Once the hardscape is complete the soil is prepared correctly so that your investment of new plants gets the best possible start. This is particularly important when the client is buying mature trees and shrubs.
There are a number of reasons to use a professional landscape gardener when considering your project. A reputable and professional landscape gardening firm has to have the expertise of engineers, horticulturists, stonemasons, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers, bricklayers and above all be problem-solvers. They are all these rolled into one. We are to construction what a Swiss Army Knife is to cutlery.
If you need a professional firm to help with your project or need an introduction to a design professional then please get in touch or email us here.
At this time of year, our garden teams are busy preparing our clients’ gardens for the colder months. Bareroot and rootballed trees and shrubs can only be planted during the months of November until April. Planting trees is one of our main Autumn/Winter projects for the teams. Each specimen has to be chosen and tagged from one of our many suppliers across the UK. Instead of stakes and braces, we use underground anchor systems to enable them to be securely planted which improves the overall aesthetic.
There are several reasons why tree and shrub planting is best done during Autumn-
With the weather being damper this year, this means that the soil in Autumn has practically perfect conditions; warm, moist and most importantly easy to dig.
Not only that, trees planted in Autumn will be allowed to gently establish their root systems before the onset of the harshest winter months. This will then kickstart the trees into life for the following growing season.
This is therefore an excellent time to make planned changes to your garden layout, create new and interesting areas, have a complete garden re-design or even finally plant those longed for and coveted specimen shrubs and trees.
Read our article: When is the best time of year to have a garden landscaped?
If you are looking at planting trees and shrubs and would like us to help you with your garden project, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The weather is starting to feel a little cooler, the nights are starting to draw in (already!), and your garden is starting to hibernate. As your outdoor space is changing you may think this is the time to pack up your parasol and leave your garden until next year. However, if you are looking to design a new garden, this is definitely not the case!
You may think that Autumn is far too soon to start considering your garden landscaping projects, however, we always recommend planning from late summer for several reasons. Below we have listed a few reasons and benefits to re-designing your garden ahead of Summer with the aim of delivery.
To create a perfect garden, like a new house, takes significant planning. Whether we are working with Garden Designers, Architects and/or Structural Engineers, allowing this time to discuss the design, materials and any other considerations (or challenges) allows us to provide an exemplar result.
This is essential if your project is a large-scale complex design with several components/areas to be considered.
Our Cornish Coastal Bolthole is a prime example.
On this project, weather was the greatest challenge as the property is positioned on a cliff top on the south Cornwall coast. As we started the project in November in the depth of winter this meant short days with horizontal driving rain and wind. Typically, it was also one of the wettest winters on record. We always say we love a challenge and this certainly was!
The work involved crafting terraced circular lawns with steel edge and Millboard decks with marine polished stainless balustrades. The latter is essential in a saltwater environment.
We used slim-set clay paver paths to replace the gravel from the house to the hot tub with materials sourced from Arbour Landscape Solutions. This now allows guests to access the hot tub deck and vista below barefoot.
As you know the devil is in the detail and the materials we use play a huge part. We have established relationships with the leading suppliers of quarried stone, decking, lighting, building products, etc meaning that we can source the most suitable material for your or your designer's scheme. Should you require a specific stone or wish to compliment an existing scheme, starting in Winter allows us, not just time, but accessibility to further resources and ensure delivery is achievable. Some products are quarried especially for an individual project and this often has a lead time of 8-10 weeks.
Our teams work all year round and it has been known that we have put a temporary roof over a whole landscape site just to ensure productivity and to ensure that timelines are kept. This also ensured that the finish on bespoke stonework could be achieved in adverse conditions.
We consider other inhabitants in your garden and are conscious of your existing wildlife. Winter is an ideal time to make the major changes to your garden as many animals are hibernating, birds are searching further afield for food sources and bees and butterflies have slowed down their pollinating.
If you are looking to complete your garden project during winter, with good planning, planting specific species can create stunning schemes alongside your new garden design. With our RHS trained horticulturists, we can suggest a plethora of winter flowering plants that will flourish beautifully during the following season. Remember also the best time to plant trees is during the Winter.
By starting to plan in Autumn, you can ensure your garden is ready to bloom when you are going to enjoy the scenery when it’s warmer and you are looking forward to outdoor living!
From introducing new water features to full-scale landscape renovation projects, we can ensure you step out into your perfect garden in Spring.
From the initial meeting to completion and with a reputation for delivering complex and challenging schemes, our award-winning team pride ourselves on our attention to detail and are experienced with working closely with design teams and clients to achieve project briefs and deliver excellence on time, to budget.
Please feel free to contact us today for a free quote.
This is a question we are always asked frequently and the answer every time is yes it does.
When considering moving homes, the garden often plays a significant role in the decision-making process. If a well-designed and landscaped outdoor living space or garden appeals to you, you're not alone. Such spaces can not only add value to your home, but also significantly enhance your quality of life.
Your garden is the wrapping for the biggest investment most people ever make and architects stand by the fact that it is the landscape that informs any building.
The term "outdoor living space" refers to any area outside that acts as an extension of the indoor living environment. This can include everything from simple patios to elaborate gardens that serve as outdoor kitchens, dining areas, or relaxation zones. An effectively utilised garden can transform daily life by providing a venue for:
Designing the perfect outdoor living space involves more than just selecting plants and patio furniture. It requires thoughtful consideration of your lifestyle needs and how each element will function within the space. Alongside garden designers and Landscape Architects, landscape gardeners are skilled in creating functional and beautiful outdoor environments tailored to personal specifications and budgets.
They take into account:
Professional landscapers can navigate these challenges, turning potential negatives into well-designed features of your garden.
Not all outdoor enhancements require planning permission, but it's crucial to comply with local building regulations. A professional landscaper understands these regulations well and can advise you on any necessary permissions. This precaution ensures that your new outdoor space is not only beautiful, but also legally compliant.
The cost of developing an outdoor living space varies widely depending on the scope and scale of your project. Landscapers can work with your budget to suggest materials and designs that maximise your investment without compromising on quality or aesthetics or breaking the bank. Unlike what you might see on TV makeover shows, real-life garden renovations need to be planned with a realistic budget in mind.
A beautifully designed garden can significantly enhance your property's value and your enjoyment of it. However, poor design or workmanship can detract from both. It's essential to choose landscaping professionals who use high-quality materials and whose expertise ensures that the space is not only attractive, but also safe, well built, robust and durable.
When planning changes to your garden with the intent to sell your property in the future, consider balancing your personal tastes with designs that will also appeal to potential buyers. Choose versatile design elements that can easily be personalised with different accessories or planting to appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Well-designed and professionally executed outdoor living spaces do add value to properties and improve the quality of lifestyle. Just as you would with an indoor renovation, investing in professional landscape design and construction for your garden ensures a lasting and beneficial enhancement to your home.
If you are looking to transform your garden into a unique outdoor living space? Contact us today.
Unique Projects wins at the Pro Landscaper Awards for their QE2 Jubilee Superbloom Floating Meadow Community Green Space under £100,000 Category…..
On Friday 12th July, at Farnham Castle in Surrey, companies from across the industry came together to celebrate exemplar landscaping projects, with a value up to £100k.
This year's Pro Landscaper Awards, in association with Nth Degree, saw a record number of entries and fifteen independent judges from across the UK landscaping industry offered their expertise.
With 67 projects shortlisted across the 12 categories and judged by 15 of the most well respected experts in the landscape industry, the awards acknowledged the challenges of making high-quality, purpose-built spaces with smaller budgets.
We are extremely proud to announce that our QE2 Jubilee Superbloom Floating Meadow won the Community Green Space under £100,000 Category.
Here is how it happened….
In May 2022 Unique Projects received a call to action after the original contractor had to withdraw from the project. An industry collaborator, Richard Bickler of Arbour Landscape Solutions, called to ask if we could help The PIE Factory, a London-based environmental positive impact agency to transform a 300m2 commercial Thames barge into a Floating Meadow for a well known high fashion brand. The brand was the main sponsor for the Superbloom event within the Tower of London. This event was designed to showcase sustainability.
We were only given 3 weeks to work up the methodology, procurement and the entire complex logistics program. We had to pull a multi-skilled team of landscapers together who all shared our vision.
The whole project was built in five 12 hour days by a team of 10 by utilising specialist equipment like a 20t excavator with long reach arm and grab. This required specialist transport and road closures to be organised to get this onto the docks. The team then had to literally move heaven
and earth or rather more than 6000 plants, 80 tons of topsoil, 20 tons of self-binding gravel and weld to the deck 200 linear meters of steel edge….. wearing lifejackets! The #landscaperswearlifejackets was born.
On the sixth day, it was towed from The Royal Docks to its mooring at Tower Bridge by a tug powered by biofuel.
The meadow was then maintained for the 10 days while the event was live and the team commuted out to the barge by boat in the evenings to water and maintain it. The whole project was then dismantled in 2 days and all the materials and plants were recycled, repurposed or rehomed to hospitals, schools and doctors surgeries in and around London for the enjoyment of the community. Both the construction and our team's transport and activity were analysed throughout the project and all the data captured to underline that this project was a responsible environmental carbon measured scheme.
You can view the full project here: https://www.uniqueprojectsdevon.co.uk/case-studies/burberry-floating-meadow-tower-bridge/
Tony Goodridge, Director, said,
“We feel this is a great achievement as the team at Pro Landscaper were overwhelmed with the number of responses received, and the judges affirmed that the standard of projects in the UK landscaping sector is quite astounding.”
Ben Browning, Director, commented,
“This project was testament to what a collaborative exercise can produce. We were extremely proud of our team and the suppliers that sat behind it to make this possible and a particular thanks to the team at The Royal Docks for their stalwart support in the venture.”
We are extremely proud to have won these awards and look forward to entering more exciting and innovative projects at next year’s awards.
Collaborators:
Pie Factory: www.wearepie.com
Testimonial: “The landscaping, construction and horticultural expertise and experience that Ben, Tony and their amazing team at Unique Projects brought to the project was paramount to its overall success.” Mick Marks, Managing Director, The PIE Factory
Arbour Landscape Solutions: www.arbourlandscapesolutions.co.uk
END
Contact details:
Ben Browning | Director
Tel: 07971 567069
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.uniqueprojectsdevon.co.uk
46 St. Lukes Road, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 4ND
Call us today
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Unique Projects (Devon) Ltd is a company registered in England & Wales. Registered number: 14221838. Registered office: 38 Elizabeth Road, Seaton, Devon, EX12 2DR.