Garden Rescue episode 21 2023 – Liverpool – David and Michelle have recently discovered the exhilarating joys of skiing, becoming completely smitten with the winter sport. Their newfound love has ignited a desire to bring the vibrant atmosphere of ‘après-ski’ into their own backyard, a space where they can bask in the ski-lodge vibe 365 days a year. When they first moved into their charming house a decade ago, the garden was a picture-perfect sanctuary, brimming with colorful blooms and intricate landscaping. However, as parents of two young and energetic children, they quickly realized that the existing garden was far from kid-friendly. With this in mind, they chose a pragmatic approach and replaced the elaborate landscape with a more practical, open turf space where the kids could play safely.
But as time moved on and their children grew older, David and Michelle realized it was finally their turn to transform the garden into something that echoed their own interests and hobbies. What they envisioned was more than just a garden; they dreamed of an alpine-themed bar area, a cozy corner where they could entertain friends and toast to the good times, evoking the essence of a mountain ski resort. Beyond the bar, they had other specific wants. A tranquil water feature to add a touch of serenity, and a designated area where their beloved pet dog could freely roam and play, were also high on the wish list.
This whole concept of a ski-inspired garden was uncharted territory for the landscaping team. Charlie and Lee, the lead designers, were intrigued yet slightly cautious. Could they actually bring to life a snowy mountain-scape right in the heart of Liverpool? And could this be achieved with a budget constraint of £5,000? The challenge was undeniably ambitious. Had they bitten off more than they could chew, or would they rise to the occasion and create a dreamy alpine escape in an urban setting?
David and Michelle are on the edge of their seats, equally anxious and excited to see if their vision can turn into a reality. The clock is ticking, the stakes are high, but so are the spirits. The prospect of having a year-round ‘après-ski’ paradise in their own backyard is too enticing to give up on. Only time will tell if this grand vision will come to fruition, but one thing is clear: this garden project is not just another makeover; it’s a journey to bring a slice of mountain magic to their everyday lives.
Garden Rescue episode 21 2023 – Liverpool
David and Michelle have recently discovered the exhilarating joys of skiing, becoming completely smitten with the winter sport. Their newfound love has ignited a desire to bring the vibrant atmosphere of ‘après-ski’ into their own backyard, a space where they can bask in the ski-lodge vibe 365 days a year.
When they first moved into their charming house a decade ago, the garden was a picture-perfect sanctuary, brimming with colorful blooms and intricate landscaping. However, as parents of two young and energetic children, they quickly realized that the existing garden was far from kid-friendly. With this in mind, they chose a pragmatic approach and replaced the elaborate landscape with a more practical, open turf space where the kids could play safely.
But as time moved on and their children grew older, David and Michelle realized it was finally their turn to transform the garden into something that echoed their own interests and hobbies. What they envisioned was more than just a garden; they dreamed of an alpine-themed bar area, a cozy corner where they could entertain friends and toast to the good times, evoking the essence of a mountain ski resort.
Bringing the Mountains to the City
Beyond the bar, they had other specific wants. A tranquil water feature to add a touch of serenity, and a designated area where their beloved pet dog could freely roam and play, were also high on the wish list.
This whole concept of a ski-inspired garden was uncharted territory for the landscaping team. Charlie and Lee, the lead designers, were intrigued yet slightly cautious. Could they actually bring to life a snowy mountain-scape right in the heart of Liverpool? And could this be achieved with a budget constraint of £5,000? The challenge was undeniably ambitious. Had they bitten off more than they could chew, or would they rise to the occasion and create a dreamy alpine escape in an urban setting?
David and Michelle are on the edge of their seats, equally anxious and excited to see if their vision can turn into a reality. The clock is ticking, the stakes are high, but so are the spirits. The prospect of having a year-round ‘après-ski’ paradise in their own backyard is too enticing to give up on. Only time will tell if this grand vision will come to fruition, but one thing is clear: this garden project is not just another makeover; it’s a journey to bring a slice of mountain magic to their everyday lives.
Crafting an Alpine-Themed Oasis
The landscaping team gets to work, beginning by assessing the existing garden space. They take measurements, analyze sunlight patterns, and consider drainage needs. With the structural basics in mind, they start sketching and refining the layout, incorporating David and Michelle’s wish list items like the bar area and water feature.
For the overall design concept, Charlie and Lee take inspiration from classic alpine architecture, focusing on natural wood and stone elements. They envision timber beams, a stacked stone bar facade, and rustic wood furniture to evoke a cozy ski lodge vibe. As far as plants, they select low-maintenance alpine varieties like heathers, lavenders, thyme and hardy sedums that can withstand Liverpool’s climate extremes.
Already, an alpine garden oasis is starting to take shape on paper. But a design is only the first step; now comes the real test of transforming the ideas into reality.
Constructing an Après-Ski Atmosphere
With the bulk of the heavy-duty construction completed, including new retaining walls and custom stonework, the team shifts their focus to final touches that will bring the après-ski vision to life.
They build a stunning stacked stone bar, complete with alpine-inspired light fixtures and barstools made from tree stumps. Next, they incorporate weathered timber accents throughout the space – a pergola here, a fence section there. These textures warm up the landscape and add a cozy, rustic feeling.
No ski lodge would be complete without the soft rush of flowing water. The team chooses large boulders and river rock to line a meandering brook that they dig into the landscape. Nearby, a modest pond offers another water element, while also giving continuity to the design. As a final flourish, they scatter smooth pebbles along the paths, evoking a bubbling mountain stream.
With construction nearly finished, Lee places the order for low-maintenance, alpine plants. Soon the aromatic foliage of lavender, rosemary, and thyme will add the finishing touch of sensory magic.
A Playful Sanctuary for Four-Legged Friends
One special section of the garden is devoted entirely to the family pet. David and Michelle’s energetic dog requires plenty of space to roam and play, so the team designs a dog-friendly wonderland just for him.
They start by enclosing the zone with secure fencing that blends nicely into the landscape. Inside, generous turf areas give room to run and play fetch. Obstacle courses made from tree trunks and boulders add mental stimulation and fun. For shade and quiet resting spots, airy pergolas are adorned with climbing vines. And for drinking, a flowing wall fountain offers a refreshing splash.
Thoughtful details like pea gravel digging areas and elevated food/water bowls cater to canine behaviors and needs. With this tailored oasis, the family dog can enjoy outdoor time safely and in style.
Final Reveal: An Urban Après-Ski Retreat
After weeks of hard work, construction mess, and anxious waiting, the big reveal day finally arrives. Though David and Michelle have seen the progress, the final garden remains shrouded in mystery.
As they arrive in their backyard for the first time, broad smiles spread across their faces. The landscape is utterly transformed into a breathtaking homage to the mountains. Alpine plants scent the air, and features like the stone bar and babbling brook transport them straight to the slopes.
Though the urban surroundings are still visible beyond the fences, this garden now feels like a world unto itself – a private ski resort nestled right in their own backyard. The vision has been brought to life through thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and careful plant selection.
David and Michelle are thrilled as they explore every corner, continually noticing thoughtful details and elements evoking classic alpine architecture. The daydream of après-ski without leaving home is now a beautiful reality.
With a stunning new garden tailored to their loves and lifestyle, this Liverpool family can look forward to many seasons of enjoyment ahead. Après-ski is no longer a temporary vacation activity; it’s a lifestyle integrated into everyday moments and gatherings with friends. Even in the heart of the city, they now have an alpine escape that offers a feeling of peace, playfulness and possibilities.
Conclusion
This ambitious garden makeover project proved that with creativity and determination, backyard spaces can be transformed to match our passions and interests. By evoking David and Michelle’s newfound love of skiing through intentional use of design, materials and plants, the landscaping team managed to bring a convincing mountain atmosphere to an urban plot in Liverpool.
Elements like the stone bar, timber pergolas, alpine plants and water features came together to create an immersive après-ski setting. And the specially designed dog zone catered to a beloved family pet while also blending nicely with the overall aesthetic. Despite a modest £5,000 budget, the team delivered an imaginative garden that will provide joy and inspiration for many seasons to come.
Most importantly, this unique garden makeover reminds us that our outdoor spaces can be so much more than just grass and trees. With creativity and purposeful design choices, our landscapes can reflect cherished hobbies and interests, enhancing daily life. Just like David and Michelle, we can escape without leaving home by crafting outdoor sanctuaries that speak to our passions.
Frequently Asked Questions – Garden Rescue episode 21 2023 – Liverpool
What were some key features of the ski lodge-inspired garden?
Some of the main features included a stacked stone bar, timber pergolas, alpine plants like lavender and sedum, a meandering brook, and specialty areas for entertaining and for the family dog. Natural materials like wood, stone and plants helped create an authentic alpine feel.
What was the budget for this garden makeover project?
The landscaping team had a budget constraint of £5,000 to complete the entire design and renovation. This limited budget made the project more challenging but they managed to bring the ski lodge vision to life.
How did they cater the garden space for the family’s pet dog?
The dog zone was customized with secure fencing, pea gravel digging patches, turf areas for play, climbing obstacles, shady pergolas, an elevated food/water station and a splash fountain for drinking. These details created a dog-friendly oasis.
What types of gatherings and activities were envisioned for the new garden?
The main entertaining area with the alpine-inspired bar was designed as a place to get together with friends. The overall garden was meant to facilitate casual gatherings, relaxation and time in nature.
How did they evoke the feeling of skiing and winter in the garden?
The designers used natural stone, timber, pebble paths, alpine plants, and water features to recreate elements from mountain landscapes. Rustic materials and a cool color palette enhanced the wintry ambiance even in a warm climate.