Inspiring rustic designs for the garden - by Rob Davis - New York

If you're thinking of adding a rustic masterpiece to your garden, let me introduce you to the brilliant work of Rob Davis from the Hudson Valley in New York. Fair warning: his creations are so stunning, you might find yourself scrolling through his portfolio for hours instead of actually getting any gardening done.

Rob runs Romancing The Woods, a one-man operation that's anything but small-time. With over 25 years of experience crafting bespoke outdoor structures, he's built everything from enchanting woodland arbours to cosy garden shelters that make you wonder why you ever settled for a regular bench. His website is absolutely worth a visit: https://romancingthewoods.com/

What makes Rob's work truly special is his obsession with quality. He hand-selects locally harvested eastern red cedar from the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains—no mass-produced timber here. Every piece is carefully chosen for its character, durability, and natural beauty. Whether you're after a ready-made design or something completely custom-built for your space, Rob collaborates with you to create exactly what you're envisioning.

Here in the UK, we're equally fortunate. While Rob sources eastern red cedar from America, we have access to hazel—a timber that rivals red cedar in every meaningful way. Hazel is naturally durable, beautifully grained, and grows abundantly across British woodlands. It's lighter to work with, sustainably harvested locally, and carries that same rustic charm without the transatlantic shipping. For UK gardeners, hazel offers the same longevity and aesthetic appeal as Rob's American cedar, with the added benefit of supporting local forestry and reducing your carbon footprint. It's the best of both worlds: authentic rustic design with a distinctly British character.

His portfolio speaks for itself. From intricate arbours to sturdy shelters and garden furniture that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale, Romancing The Woods has earned serious recognition among landscape architects, garden designers, and anyone with an eye for natural beauty. The work has been featured in garden publications and admired by homeowners, parks, and commercial landscapes across the globe.

Inspired to bring rustic charm to your own outdoor space? We can help with the materials. Get in touch with us at Ryan@climb-hire.co.uk and let's make your garden dreams a reality.