On a small block in Mosman, we answered the clients brief to deliver a classically influenced style of landscape with easy-care, tailored gardens. Transforming the tight space included removing overgrown trees, remodeling the timber deck, installing a new boundary fence, building natural stone clad feature walls, installing new steps and paved areas, creating raised garden beds, tiling the front courtyard and building a new arbour above the front gate.
Joanne and Rory worked closely with the clients to understand their priorities. In the backyard, with neighbours close by, privacy was a concern as were views, and within the small space the clients desired a private entertaining area and tranquil gardens.
Advanced Cypress Pine trees along the back fence were removed to allow more light to enter the back of the property while a cut out was made in the timber deck for the addition of a shade and feature tree. Landscape lighting was strategically positioned to highlight features like the tree and the new natural stone clad curved feature wall which cleverly hides the entertaining deck from neighboring windows.
The client wanted definition in the garden beds, and we selected plants to suit this, including Viburnum, Camellia’s and Japanese Boxes. The specimen tree in the timber deck cut out is a Flowering Cherry Tree - Prunus Shirotae ‘Mt Fuji’, as it has a non-aggressive root system, assists with screening and provides beautiful seasonal change. We added some softness throughout the garden with Purple Leafed Plectranthus, Chinese Star Jasmine, Liriope and Wedding Lilies.
With a new puppy in the mix, there were considerations required to ensure the garden and puppy both thrived. Once the new gardens had been planted, a temporary low fence was installed to avoid the puppy digging it up.
The front of the property also received a face lift with new raised garden beds constructed to give greater soil depth and width for plants, plus the existing paved area was tiled in a striking, traditional tessellated pattern. The new arbour above the entry gate was constructed with additional height, to offer added privacy from the apartments across the road.
The result: Two contemporary and functional outdoor spaces that enhance the style and architecture of the house. The flow of the spaces have been dramatically improved and the use of different materials and textures including timber, stone and tiles have made the garden feel rich in texture yet relaxed and inviting. Even within a very tight space, with properties closely surrounding, the garden feels stylish, intimate and serene.
“We are delighted with the transformation of our outdoor spaces. The Joanne Green Landscape and Interior team had so many wonderful suggestions for our front courtyard and backyard, and we enjoyed working with them throughout the process. We love our outdoor dining area and spend so much more time in the backyard as the space is just such a beautiful place to be!” said property owners, Cathy and Steve.