LANDSCAPE OF THE YEAR AWARDS ENTRANT VIC
Bespoke elements create a tranquil oasis in a lively urban setting
The outdoor spaces that wrap this modern home in their soft embrace reflect the owners’ dual desire. “They wanted distinctive outdoor spaces and they sought a landscape design that would mitigate the imposing architecture of their new house,” explains Chris Weiss, Principal Designer and Director of Formation Landscapes.
“For the front garden, the owners wanted lush greenery and the soothing sound of running water to create a serene ambiance. The pathway design had to be practical yet contribute to the overall aesthetic, and we had to ensure easy access to the rear of the property, all while taking into consideration the site’s varying levels.”
As for the courtyard which flows off the basement-level gym, the owners wanted to use it for entertaining, so this area was designed by Chris to be an inviting space where people could relax on an in situ concrete bench.
Chris’s design is replete with exquisite elements, each carefully crafted to cater to the specifics of the site and the owners’ personal preferences. One of the standout elements is the strategically placed custom water feature in the front yard.
“To address the clients’ need for privacy and aesthetic appeal, we incorporated creative plant combinations throughout the property,” adds Chris. “The use of softening plants was essential in tempering the strong lines of the house, and creating a natural barrier between the rear garden and the tall neighbouring properties.”
Of the poolside arbour and custom planter boxes, he says: “They serve two purposes: providing privacy and acting as one of the garden’s main visual features. These elements blend seamlessly with the surroundings, ensuring the garden feels cohesive and inviting.”
In a corner of the basement courtyard, a 4m-tall Cyathea cooperi (lacy tree fern), creates a focal point for those exiting the gym after a workout. Adding scale and height elsewhere around the property, there is Betula pendula ‘Moss White’ (silver birch), Laurus nobilis ‘Baby Bay’ (dwarf bay tree), Bambusa oldhamii (sweet shoot bamboo), and Camellia sasanqua (sasanqua camellia). By the pool, the vertical plane is cloaked in Trachelospermum jasminoides (star jasmine).
The lower-layer of planting is diverse. You’ll discover Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’ (variegated smooth agave), Bergenia cordifolia (heart leaf bergenia), Ligularia reniformis (tractor seat plant), Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’ (foxtail fern), and Echinocactus grusonii (golden barrel cactus). The groundcover planting emphasises foliage form and texture, from the dense, mat-forming Myoporum parvifolium (creeping boobialla) to the fine-leafed Zoysia tenuifolia (Korean velvet grass).
Garden lighting paints an enchanting nightscape with thoughtfully placed lights drawing attention to the unique plant combinations and architectural features.
The combination of bespoke elements, creative planting, and strategic lighting has resulted in a matchless landscape that delights even after the sun has set.
Contact Details
Landscape Design & Construction: Formation Landscapes
Phone (03) 9044 7910
Email info@formationlandscapes.com.au
