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Leeds Metropolitan University
A Garden For Robin
Designers: Diane Appleyard, Paul Ashton, Dawn Johnson, Simon Street, John Walker
Sponsor: HBG Properties
Contractor: Aire Valley Landscaping Services
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This is a contemporary space to capture the spirit of York Gate Garden in Leeds. The garden art and design students say that this renowned small garden is considered by many to be a masterpiece of 20th century garden design. This garden has been named after the designer of the York Gate Garden, Robin Spencer.
A Garden for Robin has a rich mixture of texture and pattern in its hard landscape materials. A curved timber bench shaded by a spreading tree allows enjoyment of the lush foliage and dramatic flowers of an exuberant spring planting. Sedum screens and a curving wall built with slivers of richly coloured sandstone and bands of reclaimed slate sweep through the space to provide intrigue and enclosure.
A rill of clear water gurgles over reclaimed stone steps into a deeper pool, adding sound and movement. Three mounds unite the space; a dome of corten steel contrasts with the delicate plant forms, and two softer moss-covered domes. Towards the rear of the garden a more naturalistic effect is achieved with meadow grasses and wildflowers.
Key plants include Sambucus nigra f. laciniata, Rodgersia podophylla, Iris chrysographes ‘Kew Black’, Fritlllaria camschatcensis, Molinia caerulea, Matteuccia struthiopteris, Astrantia major subsp. involucrata ‘Moira Reid’ and Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’.