Luxuriant planting and earthy, natural materials create a sense of serenity.
Warm and welcoming, this garden, designed and built by Exotic Living, is a place of serenity.
“The owners had a clear vision for their outdoor space: a tranquil haven with a natural feel. They longed for a garden that would provide relaxation and attract an array of wildlife, from butterflies to birds,” explains director and landscape designer, Mitchell Kushturian. “During the design process there were many factors to consider, with privacy from the rear neighbours one of the most crucial. Creating a focal point that could be admired from the lounge area was another key consideration. They also wanted a hidden potting area, providing a practical workspace while maintaining the garden’s aesthetic integrity, and an unobtrusive seating solution that would allow them to immerse themselves in the garden and just observe nature.”
The strategic incorporation of level changes introduced visual interest and divided the garden into distinct zones, making it possible to fulfil the owners’ brief. The central raised section also adds depth to the relatively small space, emphasises the timber batten screening and acts as a focal point that can be enjoyed from indoors.
“The use of natural sandstone, in particular, the meticulously hand-shaped random sandstone ballast blocks used for the retaining walls, adds a touch of rustic elegance,” says Joshua Kushturian, director and construction manager. “The dark tones of the spotted gum timber, used for the bench, stairs and screening, contrasts the stone’s yellow and cream hues.
“The bench seat was seamlessly integrated into the sandstone ballast walls and designed to have a floating appearance. It also features armrests of sandstone. Additional seating was created by using a large sandstone billet. Positioned at a slight angle to offer a full perspective of the garden, the block became a focal point surrounded by greenery.”
The planting palette, consisting of cool greens, greys and blues, creates a rhythmic flow right throughout the design, while the repetition of specific plants, such as Festuca glauca and Casuarina glauca ‘Cousin It, contribute to the sense of cohesion,” explains Mitchell. “Plants of varying heights — groundcovers like Convolvulus, shrubs like Westringia, and screening plants like Grevillea and Elaeocarpus reticulatas — add depth and dimension to the garden. This layering of contrasting forms and foliage densities also evokes a calming ambience.
“By understanding the owners’ brief and pushing the boundaries of creativity, we have created a garden that connects them with nature and enables them to experience the sense of seclusion they desired.”
The judges of the 2023 TLA Landscape Excellence Awards were just as impressed as the owners with the finished landscape, with the remarkable project winning Silver in the Residential Construction $50,000-$100,000 category and Bronze in the Residential Design 80m2-200m2 category.
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