Garden design, garden planning, garden layout, planting plants and planting schemes

Urban Garden Design

Posted on April 15th, 2009

Some photos from a recent project illustrate how functional design together with a well executed installation can provide very rewarding results in  a garden which is practical, functional and eye catching. To achieve an appealing and successful outcome, requires from the outset  clarity of design requirements and good searching discussions with clients are an ideal means to determine a design layout and style of finish that will comply with prescribed criteria. As always, our approach is consistent throughout all of our projects irrespective of size, location or indeed budget. For us the challenge as designers is not to merely meet client needs but to exceed client expectations.  In this instance the client was anxious to rectify an earlier error in which a large and cumbersome looking composite decking had been installed the previous year. The client’s disappointment with the decking was such to to effectively suspend any further development of the garden. Eager to seek a fresh evaluation of area the client contacted us for a meeting to discuss and explore the deisgn potential. Arising from discussions and preparations of costings,  a design was developed which satisfied the client’s wishes and preferences.

It became clear during the early stages of the design discussions,  that the client had been attracted to the design of one of our earlier projects. Also, it emerged through discussions on options that the decking had to go.  This was subsequently clarified and it was agreed to remove the decking and replace it with natural granite paving of silver grey hues. Other finishes included the use of guillotined  grey sandstone for the construction of the Raised Planting Beds and that the wall and fencing was to be cladded with our weatherboard (shiplap) finish and painted a dark colour. We agreed that black would provide a highly defined background, but rather than worry about possible illusions of less space but instead select plants with distinctive colour foliage and forms to effectively contrast and stand out against the dark background.  Other factors which influenced plant selection included that the plants be relatively low maintenance and also be capable of withstanding some of the playful advances of the family’s pet dog. Some aspects also required consideration including screening on the left side (Street Light)  and rear (neighbouring houses).  The end results are refreshing and illustrate very well how  a practical layout can provide more interesting layouts, better views and a sense of more planned and open space which results in an area which is more appealing and make for better use and greater enjoyment of the garden. Which is not a bad thing today.