I was called in to assist in re-designing this narrow front garden courtyard into a no lawn low maintenance garden. Removing the existing struggling lawn allowed the addition of stepping pavers to provide access around the house. Setting these into a compacted crushed Summerstone surface meant that the courtyard would be light and inviting giving it an informal coastal style.

Since the front door entrance is reached through this courtyard, it was important to accentuate the entrance – this was achieved by re-purposing an existing water feature into a tall planter from which Casuarina Cousin It will flow as they mature. This planter now creates a perfect new visual accent when exiting the front door.

Gabion cages were filled with Riverstone to allow for informal seating around a free standing fire pit. Other casual seating includes tree stumps and a large granite top.

The existing formal hedging and Ornamental pears were retained to ensure a good garden structure. These provide much needed privacy from the adjoining road and provide excellent screening which ensured a relaxed outdoor living space was created around it.

A small nook at the entrance was renewed by removing an old vine & structure, allowing more light into the house. Here a new potted accent plant draws attention among a bed of Riverstones and planting of Nandina will soften the house walls.

Planting is a mix of natives, succulents and lush tropical foliage together with the classic green hedges. To achieve a casual overall design, some plants have been planted into the gravel area and an existing potted Dragon Tree adds structure and height. Large Riverstone have been placed for dramatic effect to create visual interest and add to the cohesive design. These all work well together, creating an eclectic interesting space with continual visual interest.