Manor Farm, UK
Location: Cranborne Chase AONB, United Kingdom
Scope: Concept design, planning support and implementation
Timeline: 2022 August - 2024 May
Turning an arable field’s corner into a wildlife haven. A set of 3 pondlets bring flowing water into the core of a young meadow where wildflowers emerge, for the first time, from dormant seedbank. Tree and shrub plantings thicken the boundary for better windbreak and bird nesting.
Arable field transition
Surrounded by agricultural land, this slice of land was destined for a more invigorating future in the hands of its new owner. With the desire to bring life back to the barren field, the brief was set to create a collection of water bodies to attract migrating and local wildlife. It had to be safe and playful for children, so it was the perfect chance to make something that intrigues. We wanted to create a space where humans of all ages can find a sense of wonder, exploration, an immersion into nature. Designed in elements were introduced to bringing the visitor closer to the water and let them stay for a while.
Set in an AONB it was crucial to play to the character of the area and nourish its existing nature network with the plant choices. The scheme was planted in Autumn 2023, the new trees and plants will awake this coming spring to much of the excitement of all involved. In the meantime the reflection of the horizon in the mirror like water and the sound of the running water across the rills bring tranquillity to the viewer.
The Build
Safe in the skilful hands of Land and Waterscapes, masterfully navigating tonns at a time, they created yet another brilliant water haven. Perfectly built pondlets connect to each other with cascading rills,bringing oxygenated water with them along the way. Playful boulders invite for a moment of observation and sit.
The Planting
Young and energetic, this crew worked wonders. Planting a myriad of trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs in the autumn of 2023, the plants are settling well into the chalky limestone ground of the site. With the approving whistles of resident birds, all trees were placed out to give generous growing space with their future size in mind. Using a palette of site specific natives, they immediately felt like they belong.
