The Estate Gardens at Bonython in Cornwall
In 2008 Mrs. Nathan designed an oval reflecting pool, positioned in front of the Georgian Manor house to enhance the ever changing sky views and reflected light from nearby Poldhu Cove.
The Manor faces the sea into prevailing south west winds. It is extremely exposed, making most planting impossible. However, the simplicity of the feature and the beauty of the granite Georgian facade with tranquil open views across farmland to distant sea, create a most perfect rural idyll. Whether viewed from inside looking out, where the light is exquisite, or from the fields looking back to see the classic symmetry reflected in the pool, it is an architectural and design triumph!
The thatched, Summer House was created from a traditional disused stone ‘Bothy’, collapsing outside the walled garden. Repaired in 2005, it now reappears as a ‘Tea House’ as if it were always there! Enjoy the wonderful view, through, the apple orchard, to the first lake where ducks swim happily in the magic peace of the garden.,
Heading past the lake there is a stream, which has been edged with the stone found on the Estate. In spring Camassias burst forth creating a wonderful haze of blue, followed by many varieties of Irises.
The journey continues to the 2nd lake which is most surprising. Here, hot colours of the South African plants and ornamental grasses excite with their strong pallettes and textures. This sheltered area is the perfect home for summer flowering perennials. This section of the garden retains interest and looks good year round.
Joining the lakes via another stream, continue to Quarry Lake with more South African restios, tender plectranthrus etc. surviving in this atmospheric, sheltered, area. High stone cliffs falling into the water create a quiet, romantic, ghostly, feel with Dicksonia Antarctica (tree ferns) thriving as well as many different species of bamboo.
