A couple who had recently moved into the hood wanted to make better use of and get more enjoyment from their compact courtyard.

Previously, an elaborate vertical garden system was taking up lots of space and using lots of water. The clients bravely agreed to remove it. The space was opened up to create a contemporary Australian courtyard garden for both entertaining and private enjoyment.

My design provided a built-in seating solution with a sense of enclosure and shelter provided by a small overhead arbour. The choice of Chinese star jasmine growing up the arbour will provide year-round green, shade and perfume in the summer months.

The rusted corten edging and beautiful spotted gum seat creates a warm palette, further enhanced by pink salt screenings and natural travertine paving. A gorgeous copper birdbath provides a focal feature, perched on a lovely warm granite rock. Beautiful textured, Japanese tiles add style and elegance to the raised planter.

Planting is largely native and chosen to be climate ready without sacrificing style and interest.

The garden was installed by one of my trusted landscape contractors in Spring 2025 in time for the growing season.