On reading Monty Don yesterday about the use of garden hedges, I was reminded that hedges can be used within a garden to create ‘human sized spaces’ as well as around the boundary. This set me thinking about the different sizes of space I might like to have and the idea of creating a secluded secret garden within the garden. The idea would be to have an area which would be a sheltered sun-trap, perhaps further from the house where it can feel ‘away’ but also screened from the busway. It could be a space for sitting, reading and meditation, being in nature without feeling exposed. So as well as a hedge or perhaps bamboos (or both) it would have a bench and a focal point. The flowers would be white or pink and perhaps a scented arbour around the bench. Maybe also something like chimes which create a feeling of peace and tranquility- maybe even a small pool ( in a barrel with goldfish?). An evergreen hedge would probably be best, although it would need to look OK from the outside as well as the inside.