SHORE
The keys to the house had been handed over just a few months prior, and the ‘garden’ was still hungover from the build. Compacted, heavy clay soil typical of the Western Basalt Plains served as an inglorious shallow grave for construction debris. Sat on a corner block with full northern and western exposure, Shore offered three distinct working areas and several unique microclimates, each requiring different solutions to truly answer the client brief.
The client requested a predominantly native plant palette - I specified Acacia boormanii, a medley of Correa species, and native grasses to ensconce the meals area. These are balanced with a handful of exotic species, a Pisachia chinensis enhanced with an understory of Acacia glaucoptera, Leucodendron galpinii ‘Purple Haze’, and Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’. Verbena bonariensis and a Gleditsia ‘Ruby Lace’ continue the warm tonal themes. Basalt steppers reflect the area’s parent geology, while recycled red clinker bricks lean into the suburb’s modern migrant history.
Over time, this garden will flourish into a beautiful and welcoming space that truly instils joy, and with it a deeper connection to the home - perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and spending quality time with a young, growing family.
