We have been delighted with the outcome of this garden renovation in Hampton which has seen the family re-engage with their garden. One key issue identified from our initial discussions was the family dog which had claimed half the garden space as his domain. In addition, a recent new high acoustic fence, installed due to the adjoining train reserve, had enclosed the garden which had traditionally been an informal patch of native bush connected to the train reserve land. The result was a garden under siege and the family had effectively retreated to the house.
The client had previously loved having the native bush outlook from their recent house renovation and wanted to retain that setting in the new design but in a much smaller space.
Our design response was to look for opportunities to reclaim the garden space for the family. We extended and adjusted the existing deck area and, utilising a series of large timber seats and core-ten steel steel planters, created a re-defined outdoor recreation and seating space – a new green usable focal point for the garden.
The materials palette carefully brought together natural timbers for the deck and seating, rusty steel edging and large rocks to combine with local native species. The existing deck was pulled back from the fence line to allow the establishment of a green backdrop for the garden adjacent to the outdoor dining area.
The result has completely shifted the focus of the garden to the widest to maximise the available space and take advantage of key views and existing boundary tree planting, set within a relaxed coastal native garden sanctuary. Whether it’s a quiet spot to read a book or a social gathering around the chimenea in the evening, the garden is now a valued space and an extension of the internal living area to be enjoyed.
Importantly, we can report that the dog is ok too and hasn’t been left out. He’s been allocated a gravel area set down from the main deck level, to give him a defined space to run.
Our role included early brief establishment, concept design, detailed design for tender and assistance to appoint a local contractor.
