PROJECTS
A Unique Arts and Crafts Patio near Ashford
This project in 20 seconds
This project was something truly special—unlike anything you see every day!
Set in a Grade II listed Mill House in Little Chart, just outside Ashford, the brief was clear: the client wanted a design that reflected the character, charm, and history of the property—but not just an ordinary patio.
A Unique Project with Historic Charm
We started with a reclaimed millstone as the centrepiece and built the design out from there. Inspired by the nearby Great Dixter House and Gardens, we incorporated old Kent peg tiles to maintain a sense of period authenticity. The bricks? They were already on-site, salvaged from ongoing renovations, helping us preserve the property’s heritage while keeping the materials as original as possible.
To tie everything together, we introduced ragstone, a key material in the oldest part of the house dating back to the 17th century. The result? A stunning outdoor space that feels like it has always been there—full of history, craftsmanship, and timeless character.
Blending Old with New
When working with a historic property, every detail matters. This wasn’t just about creating a patio—it was about crafting a space that felt like a natural extension of the centuries-old Mill House. By using reclaimed materials and drawing inspiration from Great Dixter House and Gardens, we ensured the design stayed true to the period while still delivering a practical, long-lasting outdoor space.
The old Kent peg tiles added warmth and texture, while the reclaimed bricks from the renovation gave the patio an authentic, timeworn feel. Instead of a new, modern-looking addition, the result is a space that looks like it has always been part of the property’s story.
A Patio with History Beneath Your Feet
Every material used in this project has a story to tell. The centrepiece—a millstone—is a nod to the building’s origins, grounding the design in the history of the site. From there, we layered in carefully selected ragstone, matching the oldest part of the house to create a seamless blend between the built environment and the new landscape.
Using on-site reclaimed bricks not only reduced waste but also meant that this space feels truly connected to the property’s past. This wasn’t just a landscaping project—it was a way to honour the craftsmanship of those who built this home centuries ago while creating a functional space for modern-day living.
Softening the Hardscape with Planting
A beautifully designed patio deserves equally thoughtful planting, and for this project, we wanted to create a natural flow between the stonework and the surrounding greenery. The curved planting beds follow the winding brick pathways, adding softness and contrast to the structured design.
We chose low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants that complement the historical setting while ensuring year-round interest. Ornamental grasses provide movement and texture, while carefully placed evergreens add structure. Accents of seasonal flowers and ground cover plants help to blend the patio seamlessly with the landscape, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. The result is a harmonious balance of heritage materials and natural beauty, making this outdoor space as much about nature as it is about craftsmanship.
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An Arts and Crafts patio features handcrafted details, reclaimed materials, and period-appropriate designs that honor the history and character of the surrounding property. The focus is on creativity, heritage, and timeless elegance.
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