The rear garden of this residence was non-existent as a steeply sloping unusable rock face which began just 1200mm from the house. The owners planned to eventually renovate the house but decided to first create an outdoor entertaining area which would then link seamlessly to the house.
Interesting levels, steps and retained garden beds were created. From the house bi-fold doors open to the entertaining area of decking using Spotted Gum hardwood, flush with the internal floor level. The decking is inlaid with concrete pavers (750 x 500mm) beneath the outdoor lounge furniture. The outdoor setting is arranged in front of the wood fire and chimney – built from second hand bricks, a recycled hardwood mantle and using the reclaimed sandstone lintel from a demolished wall in the original backyard. A built-in timber bench with stainless steel BBQ and adjacent casual high table and stools, as well as a kitchen server bar complete the entertaining facilities.

Rendered and stepped retaining walls of large core filled blockwork to various heights encircle the entertaining area. The retaining walls are capped with concrete coping pavers alongside the steps and water feature.