Deck and studio

Jack Sutcliffe and I stood in the rain and talked decking, and here I am now with a beautifully constructed deck, solid and neatly framed round the edges. We talked further, and a bench appeared to stand in front of my greenhouse, in exactly the style I wanted – although the sloping back, on Jack’s insistence, was definitely an improvement on the bench I had seen.

A few more photographs and discussion later, and the most beautiful Japanese-style fence appeared, along with a railing on which to lean, which I know cost some thought. I spend many happy times leaning on it, too – it’s exactly the right height. As time went on, I began to look for things for Jack to copy, and now the garden has some very unusual arches, a bench in the corner with trellis round it, and pathways in each garden room. It is a real treat to walk round the garden now, and I look forward to warmer weather to improve the planting.

The furniture in my studio has been expertly made, the product of more pictures and discussions. The furniture appeared, each piece perfectly realised, with little touches I would never have thought of but which matched the style I wanted perfectly. All in different kinds of oak, each piece complements the other, all equally functional and beautiful. It is a joy to go into the studio.

Then there’s the largest shed in Yorkshire! Matched exactly to the studio, with a shingle roof and larch cladding, it’s the perfect place to store everything while being completely in harmony with everything else in the garden.

I was extremely fortunate to find someone who could do so much, so well, and do it all cheerfully and on time. My garden was a half-formed idea; now it’s a place where I go each morning and evening to potter and enjoy the little paradise it has become.

Thank you, Jack.