This Melbourne garden is composed of old and new elements in both architecture and landscape. Out the front, a soft palette of native plants tie in with the Federation period façade. An old olive tree was retained, while Sam planted an understory of native species such as Poa and Chrysocephalum to spill over the garden beds and onto the paving. The natural tones and textures of Castlemaine slate sweep a course from the front gate to the backyard outdoor living areas. Out the back, existing trees incorporate the new design, such as the smokebush. The spatial dimensions of the relatively small backyard is enhanced by planting advanced Eucalyptus and Allocasuarina trees to create vertical scale, while layered boundary plantings obscure fence lines and draw the eye outward. Basalt boulders peek through layers of lower story foliage, where native and exotic ground covers commingle. The native grasses and understory shrubs such as Correa and Kunzea species create a spectrum of green. From the house, the dining area has a large pivot window seat that opens out to an immersive garden experience.
Building renovation by Nest Architects
