Inland Homes: Beneath a Mexican Sky

From the Show

• The large steps are made with a 2-3mm layer of micro-cement over a powder-coated steel frame - making them lightweight yet very strong
• The microcement contains zinc resin which when polished gives a subltle sheen - an effect repeated in the pool
• A truly global garden, Beneath a Mexican Sky is featuring on the world service
• The biggest challenge for the team was getting the steps into place - exact placement was needed to stop them moving when stepped on
• Manoj Malde's favourite plant is the Kalanchoe beharensis - a beautifully sculptured plant with tactile fleshy leaves, giving subtle colour and interest to the garden

At the garden

Beneath a Mexican Sky is inspired by the work of Mexican Modernist architect Luis Barragan. Colour-washed walls in tints of clementine, coral and cappuccino provide a dramatic backdrop to the planting scheme, which is offset by concrete slabs floating across a large aquamarine pool. Pouring water creates a soothing sound at the edge of the seating area. The copper wire sculpture by Rupert Till captures Barragan’s love of horses.

The garden applies a new thought process, using drought-tolerant plants that merge Mediterranean with country cottage planting. Multi-stem trees provide structure in the garden. Agaves provide rhythm and softer drought-tolerant herbaceous planting breathes beauty into the space.

Mediterranean plants are of personal interest to Manoj and he is excited to be showing Kalanchoe beharensis.