RICHMOND GARDENS
It has been 8 years since Tim Clarke made Richmond his home, taking over from the green-fingers of Melanie and John Greenwood, and six years since we last saw the Richmond gardens on display in the Tour. Tim and Tessa O’Rorke have finally plucked up the courage to make a few changes of their own – I hope you are as excited to see them as I am!
40 Wakelin Street
Carterton
The garden is expertly planted to reflect the renaissance gardens of Europe, creating a peaceful relaxing garden that invites visitors to walk and explore. One of the secrets to the harmony and sense of tranquillity of Richmond Garden is the use of evergreens and only a handful of varieties of deciduous European trees. In Autumn, the hornbeam hedges bring a warm, wintry coppery glow to the grounds. Linden limes are used throughout, in varying forms, and a water parterre, 56 metres long with a reflection pool is soothing in the heat of summer. The bronze fountain at the end pool is a replica of one in Madrid. Europe really has found a home in Carterton.
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While the evergreens are stunning, peonies and Irises will be in flower in November adding their pops of colour to the flower beds. There are herb and vegetable gardens tucked away to be discovered when you explore the wider grounds, near the horse stables and tennis court.
The detail and thoughtful placement of the gardens were also designed to be viewed from the house so that the symmetry and form of the topiary hedges and European beech could be appreciated from every room. The architecture of the house is reflected in the formality of the garden, one could say the garden is a work of architecture in itself.
This garden is one to wander slowly in and relax as you take a turn around the reflection pool – pair this with a delicious bowl of summer strawberries and ice cream supporting Hospice Wairarapa and stroll to your heart’s content.
GALLERY
