As a landscape designer, I am commissioned to design both large and small residential gardens. Both have their merits and challenges. My favorite spaces are those more on the petite size. Shoebox-size courtyard spaces and intimate urban gardens. Small spaces offer the opportunity for so much more than expected if designed right. Currently I am […]
During my travels and years as a garden designer I have visited a number of stunning gardens both here in New Zealand and in Europe; I also have an interest in sculpture. So when the opportunity came up to visit an inspiring collection of sculpture set in an amazing garden, created by an award winning […]
Everywhere you turn, we encounter messages of environmental responsibility and sustainability. The wave of environmental awareness and all things ‘Green’ continues to gather pace. Hybrid cars, environmentally safe exteriors and interiors for our homes, food and yes, even our gardens. So what is "eco-friendly gardening" all about anyway? It’s all about gardening in as natural […]
When designing or creating a garden many things are considered. One of the most important factors are the needs and wishes of the family as a whole…Mum, dad, the kids and the pets. As our lives get busier and people look for places to retreat and relax in, the garden can become a great place […]
Designing small gardens can be a challenge. Good planning is the key, which of course applies to all garden design. But in a small garden there are additional issues to think about. Simplicity In a small garden simplicity is the key. Without it small gardens can fail miserably. Simplicity does not mean boring either. A […]
Fences and Walls Love them or hate them, fencing and boundary walls are an integral feature of your garden. They offer a number of practical solutions for your property, as well as enhancing your home and neighbourhood. However, before building one, I would recommend you consider the following questions. These will help you to define […]
First impressions – make your property stand out If two similar neighbouring houses were for sale and one had a great designed garden, that one would sell faster. In fact, it is often literally the first thing potential buyers look at and are drawn to. It may sound like common sense, but it wasn’t that […]
Realisation of the dream People, for a number of reasons, employ garden designers . Many gorgeous gardens have been created gradually through the loving care and attention of their owners with little or no outside help. Homeowners may have admired the gardens of their friends and neighbours, but they often are inexperienced in horticulture and […]
