Karen’s first impressions of this townhouse courtyard were of an overpowering Phoenix palm and a few non-descript plants.Over several years, she has worked with the owner, a keen gardener, to develop the courtyard in stages. The garden space is now divided into ‘rooms’ for dining and lounging, a spa pool area, vegetables and a service area. There is an eclectic mix of plants –over 25 species – but the overall impression is one of massed planting, peace and tranquillity. Outdoor sofas and planters complete the courtyard and a contemporary glazed metallic Burrelli potprovides a dramatic sculptural element.