Umbertide, Umbria
In a perfect, unspoilt rural-agricultural setting near the Umbrian town of Umbertide, this recently purchased home had been provided with a garden by developers. The new owners requested a change of colour scheme from dominant pinks to blue-violets and a softer touch to the landscape. I also sought to enhance the middle ground between the magnificent countryside and the property which had been left stark by earth movements and clearing for construction work.
2022-2023
An orchard was planted around the far edge of a field within the fenced area of the property: the fruit trees, plus a hedge of silverberry (Eleagnus x ebbingei) provide an attractive green border to what remains a meadow, while also hiding the wire fence.
The main house and the guest house were separated by one unbroken lawn level, which acted as a barrier between the two structures. Huge quantities of rock were removed from this area to create more inviting layers which descend from the larger building to the other; the resulting inclines were filled with softer planting in the desired colour range, and rustic steps were inserted to link the levels. Gravel paths – another unnecessary dividing element – were removed. In one corner near the house, a small herb garden was created.
The front path was aligned with the front door and provided with a more inviting entrance patio.
The pale pool liner was replaced with a dark grey one to turn the water from bright to deep blue. Large tree varieties found in the surrounding woods (Quercus cerris, Quercus ilex, Acer campestre) were planted on the banks below the pool to fill the gap between house and landscape without detracting from the view along the valley. The pool seating area was extended.
A large pergola was added to the seating area at the far end of the pool.
An unresolved area of lawn at the back of the house was hedged and given added interest with sophora (Styphnolobium japonicum) and chinaberry (Melia azedarach) trees.
A containing wall was built along the approach to the house – creating definition, providing space for better soil to be added for planting and giving a neater more impressive look to the long driveway. With time the trailing species planted above the wall will soften its impact; large bushes planted further up the banks will create interest.
Planting by Garden Felici of Cortona
Orchard planting by Giardini Primanatura of Pistoia