“The gardens have been designed to reflect London’s Victorian past with a contemporary twist.” Interview with Matthew Short — Landscape Architect ns e ympathetic to both its conservation area d r status and Victorian heritage, the courtyard Ga and front gardens at the Residences on Paddington Green have been designed to be “aesthetically pleasing but functional,” says S landscape architect, Matthew Short. “They’re for all ages and abilities. Green spaces are not just for exercising,” Short explains, “you can socialise and meet new people there too.” Opportunities for meet-cutes were paramount for Short when designing the courtyard. “You have these serendipitous moments where you see your neighbour for the 昀椀rst time,” he says. “We hope elements like the small petanque area will entice residents into the courtyard to socially interact.” If you’d rather be alone, there are plenty of secluded spots. “I think the feeling you get when you enter the courtyard is one of relaxation – it’s a tranquil space,” says Short. “There’s seating underneath a canopy of trees and a re昀氀ection pool – perfect for when you want to unwind, relax and contemplate life.” Short’s favourite green space are the manicured front gardens which re昀氀ect the Victorian ones that used to be there. “It’s a very simple and subtle design with a Discover the full interview... contemporary twist – you might not even notice but they have been designed very speci昀椀cally.” 38 39