BALGOWLAH HEIGHTS

This project had two required outcomes; develop a bolder garden presence in both the front and back garden, while creating a unique area in the backyard for teenage boys to entertain in.

The backyard was a very rocky site which included a bald, exposed rock and multiple levels, but which had an innate native feel – so this was built upon by planting a number of beautiful Australian species, such as Bracelet Honey Myrtle, Kangaroo Paw, Mat Rush, selected succulents, Coastal Rosemary, Japanese Box topiaries, Sweet Viburnum, Bird-of-Paradise, Box and Keteleeri Juniper.

To carry the native feel throughout the entire redevelopment, the backyard construction included feature sandstone walling, timber bollards to support lighting and sandstone steps with decomposed granite.

To ensure the area fulfilled its entertainment goal, a fire pit was created with timber seating surrounds and a new BBQ enclosure installed, complete with lighting and a gas BBQ for year-round functionality.

The exposed rock was turned into a unique feature piece and the garden was punctuated with sculptures, tallowwood posts, sawn sandstone, castlight fittings and terrazzo pots to imbue a modern bent.

This feel was carried throughout the front yard where new feature walling, pots and lighting complemented the same plant varieties.

The end result is a bold modern garden which boasts year-round entertainment functionality and can be enjoyed by all ages.

Photography by Bruce Usher