Client: Private | Architect: BANDA | Completed 2025

The gardens were designed as part of a meticulous whole house renovation. Both the design and the installation faced highly challenging logistics and ground conditions. Garden areas had very limited access, soil depth, drainage considerations plus access vents and existing structural features to be discreetly incorporated.

Despite these limitations, the proposal looked to create a sustainable, biodiverse and environmentally friendly series of outside spaces for enlightened clients, restoring the balance between hard and soft landscaping. In the front garden the changes were restrained, balancing the traditional features, symmetry, materiality and character of the terrace with a simple planting scheme. Restoring a flagstone pedestrian access, adding a beautiful reclaimed stone fountain surrounded by a gravel garden planted with Lavender, Seslaria, Succissa & Erigeron. Balconies have simple planters of Libertia grandiflora to soften the facade and provide semi transparent screening from the street scene. In the the rear garden the same palette of materials is used in a more contemporary style. Pleached Lime & multi stemmed Acer trees add height, privacy and seasonality. Generous bands of paving with partially planted gravel insets are carefully positioned to maximise the available planting areas, an antique stone trough adds patina and the gentle sound of running water. The remaining garden is immersed in woodland perennials and grasses to conjure a meadow like atmosphere despite the limitations.