Cozy Airbnb cabin garden transformed into a stunning natural swimming pond by designer Will Tomson
**Natural Oasis in the Pennines: Berrywell's Larch-Clad Cabin and Wildlife-Friendly Swimming Pond**
Nestled in the foothills of the Pennines lies a hidden gem, Berrywell, a secluded plot transformed into a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. The property, now bookable on Airbnb, boasts a charming larch-clad cabin and a unique natural swimming pond, both designed with wildlife in mind.
The creation of the swimming pond was the brainchild of Will Tomson, who aimed to establish a "complexity of habitat" in the garden surrounding it. The main areas of planting have a wild, meadowy feel, with native species like Molinia caerulea subsp. caerulea 'Heidebraut' and Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' adding a touch of rustic charm.
The swimming pond itself was designed with design considerations that promote biodiversity. Partially shaded, it was strategically placed near a natural ecosystem, and its water area and depth vary to support diverse aquatic life. A regeneration zone, filled with aquatic plants, helps filter and purify the water naturally.
In addition to the swimming pond, Tomson also created a wildlife garden, complete with a small vegetable bed and fruit trees woven through the planting. Four or five clumps of common ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) were allowed within the borders to encourage the cinnabar moth. Cercidiphyllum japonicum and Acer griseum were added for autumn colour, while self-seeders such as Verbascum, foxgloves, and Hesperis play an important role in the garden.
The newly built wooden cabin at Berrywell wraps around a large black walnut tree (Juglans nigra), with care taken to ensure the tree's roots were not damaged during construction. The cabin, previously a holiday home, was replaced by a larch-clad structure built using ground screws to minimise disturbance to the site.
Guests of Berrywell have praised the peace and tranquillity of the property, with many writing lovingly in the visitors' book about their experiences. The natural swimming pond, the wildlife garden, and the cosy cabin offer a unique and immersive experience for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a swimmer, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Berrywell is a must-visit destination. Its commitment to wildlife, sustainable practices, and natural beauty make it a shining example of how human habitation can coexist harmoniously with the natural world.
- The wildlife garden at Berrywell also includes a small vegetable bed and fruit trees, promoting a home-and-garden lifestyle that attracts various species.
- The larch-clad cabin at Berrywell has been strategically built to minimize disturbance to the site and coexist harmoniously with the natural world, enhancing the gardening lifestyle.
- The unique natural swimming pond, designed with garden design considerations to promote biodiversity, adds a flowery touch to the lifestyle-focused property.
- The creation of the wildlife-friendly swimming pond and garden design at Berrywell is a testament to the property owner's passion for gardening and preserving the environment for future generations.
