Mastering Complex Landscapes with Precision and Craft
A technically demanding Linlithgow project delivered in collaboration with Ryan Musa Landscape Architecture, featuring Schellevis steps installed via spider crane and a fully integrated in-lite lighting scheme.
A Defining Feature in Carbon Concrete
At the heart of the scheme are sixteen carbon-coloured Schellevis steps, forming the defining feature of the landscape. Each unit, weighing 185kg, was carefully sourced directly from Holland and installed with precision using specialist lifting equipment. Beyond their scale and presence, these steps create a strong architectural spine through the garden, anchoring the design and elevating the overall finish. It was a privilege to bring this element to life as part of Ryan Musa Landscape Architecture’s vision.
A Structured Landscape Built Around Material and Form
Beyond the striking stepped transition, the garden has been carefully composed using a restrained palette of high-quality materials to create a clean, contemporary finish. Large-format granite slabs define the main terrace areas, providing a robust and elegant surface that anchors the space visually against the surrounding stone walls.
To the lower section of the garden, a dedicated planting area has been introduced with a series of raised beds, creating a more productive and softer contrast to the architectural upper levels. This space is designed to evolve over time, bringing seasonal interest and texture into the scheme.
Water plays a key role within the design, with the installation of three Corten steel ponds positioned to guide the eye through the garden. A bespoke rill is to be introduced, connecting two of the ponds and adding both movement and sound to the space, further enhancing the overall atmosphere.
The entire garden is underpinned by an integrated in-lite smart lighting system, allowing the space to be controlled directly from a mobile device. This not only highlights the key features and materials after dark but extends the usability of the garden into the evening.
While the structure and hard landscaping are now in place, the scheme is still awaiting planting, which will ultimately soften the lines and bring the full vision of the garden to life.
Overcoming Access Challenges with Precision Engineering
Access to the rear garden was extremely restricted, with a clear width of just 850mm making conventional machinery and installation methods unworkable. For many, this would have presented a significant limitation. For us, it became a challenge to solve.
To deliver the project safely and accurately, we introduced a compact spider crane, equipped with a specialist stone magnet to lift and position the heavy materials. This allowed us to manoeuvre and install the 185kg Schellevis steps with precision, despite the tight access and complex layout.
Every lift was carefully planned in advance, with detailed load calculations and method planning carried out before any work began on site. This level of preparation ensured the process was executed safely, efficiently and without compromise to the build quality.
This is where Garradh Landscape & Design stands apart. We are known for working on challenging sites where access, logistics and heavy materials require a higher level of thinking and execution. Where others may see it as impossible, we approach it methodically proving that there is always a way to deliver the project properly, safely and to the highest standard.