Shoots and Leaves Case Study
The Photographer’s Garden
London, UK
Tucked away in the heart of West London, The Photographer’s Garden is a tranquil escape beneath the lofty canopies of old London Plane trees. This green oasis offers a woodland atmosphere within the city — a place to slow down, observe, and draw inspiration from nature’s quiet beauty.
Created for Alister, a photographer with a deep love for the natural world, the garden reflects his vision of a private, atmospheric retreat. Designed as a seamless composition, it brings together layered planting, natural textures, and secluded areas for dining and reflection — a serene space where creativity and calm intertwine.
The garden is designed as a walk-through woodland, where intriguing plants, hidden corners, playful features, and sculptural elements invite exploration and relaxation.
A diverse planting scheme — including perennials, annuals, biennials, self-seeders, and evergreens — creates a seasonal, ever-changing display of colour and texture. The layout mimics natural woodland habitats, fostering plant communities that grow in harmony and providing a haven for wildlife, from birds to insects.
Alister, a passionate plantsman and photographer, has guided the garden’s creation and care, making it his daily sanctuary. Every detail is carefully crafted and photographed, offering endless inspiration in the interplay of light, shadow, colour, and texture.
The Photographer’s Garden is a living canvas — a serene city sanctuary where nature, artistry, and thoughtful design come together, inviting visitors to explore, dine, and immerse themselves in its beauty.
Photography: Alister Thorpe
Landscape construction: Shoots and Leaves
