🌿 Transforming a Vertical Garden at Randolph Cliff, Edinburgh
Perched high above the Dean Valley in Edinburgh’s New Town, Randolph Cliff is one of the city’s most striking Georgian terraces. With panoramic views stretching from the Dean Bridge to the Firth of Forth and across to Fife, it offers a rare combination of dramatic elevation and historic charm.
Working within such a steep and architecturally significant setting required a sensitive, thoughtful approach — and a deep appreciation of the site’s heritage. Our team was tasked with transforming a long-neglected, remarkably vertical garden into a functional, beautiful landscape that honours its Georgian roots while fulfilling our client’s vision.
Understanding the Site
When we first arrived, the garden had suffered many years of natural overgrowth. Ivy and other vegetation were beginning to compromise the original features. Before any new work could begin, the entire space needed to be carefully cleared and assessed.
Once the garden was stripped back and we gained a clear understanding of how the client wanted to use the space, we created a design that embraced the steep terrain rather than fighting against it.
Preserving History Through Sustainable Choices
Because of the site's historical importance, sustainability played a major role in our approach. We reused as much original stone as possible, importing only:
5 tonnes of additional walling stone
20 m² of paving
This ensured the design felt authentic, environmentally responsible, and true to the character of the original garden.
Phase One: Rebuilding Structure
Steps & Lower Walls
We began by forming the structural backbone of the garden.
This phase included:
Rebuilding the lower walls using a ballast foundation
Reusing stone reclaimed from the original garden
Constructing steps to create multiple levels within the steep terrain
Leading these steps to two raised beds
Extending a walkway beneath them toward the Dean Bridge
Each element was designed to stabilise the garden, improve access, and enhance the flow of movement through the space.
Phase Two: Curved Walkways & Garden Shape
With the main structure in place, we moved on to refining the garden’s form.
The lower walls reached completion, and we introduced a curved lower walkway designed to soften the geometry of the steep site. This path creates a natural journey through the garden, tying the levels together while directing attention outward to the remarkable valley views.
Even in the low winter light, the progress was unmistakable: structure, balance, and intention were beginning to emerge.
What Comes Next
The next phase will focus on:
Paving and detailed pathways
Planting design
Enhancing the space with colour, texture, and greenery
Final touches that bring unity to the entire garden
We look forward to sharing the final transformation — a blend of craftsmanship, history, and the dramatic beauty of the Dean Valley.
Follow the Transformation
For updates on the Randolph Cliff project and our other landscaping work across Edinburgh, follow us on Instagram or visit our blog for the next chapter in this remarkable restoration.