Tarquinia, Lazio

In the centre of an ancient hilltop town in northern Lazio, this small garden is walled on the street side, but perched high above the Medieval walls on the other.
The plot – which had been a building site for many months – was slightly sloping, with a few mature trees lending the garden some maturity. Otherwise, it was a blank canvas.

Working closely with the owners, who use the house mainly in spring and autumn, a large outside living space was created, and several fruit trees were planted to satisfy a passion for jam-making. The new trees will also function as a screen between the living area and curious neighbours. A paved entrance courtyard can provide an off-road parking area.

Design by Peter Curzon & Anne Hanley, 2008

Planting by Vivai Michelini