I was first introduced to this garden by Amanda Lynn, the interior designer who was weaving her magic on the inside of the house. During renovations, a small living room door had been replaced by generous double French doors and the view out to the garden was not that great! That's when I came in.
To get the maximum use of this back garden, the space was divided into three. The predominant area is taken up mostly by the generously proportioned patio that has added a whole new living area for this home. To one side a laser cut screen will create a dining area free from the gaze of the neighbours that loom on all side. Beyond the patio is a diagonally paved courtyard that draws you to the new BBQ and Pizza oven area.
The garden planting is a selection of shady and cool green tones that will make this space relaxing and clam. The first feature is a row of mature Magnolia grandiflora ‘Alta’ that will screen the block of units to the rear – all year round. Using the lovely bronze under leaf tones of the Magnolia, I have included aged-brass lighting and a bold bronze top for the Zesti Pizza Oven.
Tucked to the side is a small vegetable and herb garden that will not only be productive but provide a private ‘nook’ to retreat to with a coffee or a wine. Veggie beds are all self-wicking allowing the clients the flexibility of being away for days during summer and not risk losing their harvest. An old lemon tree that was out growing its pot has now been carefully moved to a warm wall in the vegetable garden. Only a small portion of the garden will be paved allowing for carpets of creeping thyme, Corsican mint, oregano and rosemary. Espaliered pear trees will flank the surrounding walls.
The third area is along the side of the house and it is here we find the all-important utility area. This will be home to the clothesline, gas bottles, air conditioning units and a small garden shed. Every house has these but there is never any reason for them to be unsightly. Again, creeping ground covers will creep alongside the central paving. A wall of star jasmine also softens this area but will also waft perfume through the side windows and into the house.
