Beyond the garden path

Large gardens can be just as difficult to manage as those where space is very restricted. For the project featured on this page, it was not only necessary to create a strong structure for the garden, there was also a need to define the entrance to the house, which was down a long pathway.

Landscape designer Robin Shafer chose to create a large pathway to the house, which is paved with Haddonstone Platinum pavers from Jagas Paving. To avoid a large expanse of paving, the path is visually broken by horizontal and vertical bands of mosaic river pebbles.

A patio opposite the front door serves as a focal point and helps to lead the eye towards the entrance. A small, L-shaped pool follows the clean lines of the patio and enhances the tranquil look.

With its green, layered backdrop of buxus, port wine magnolia hedging and pleached Ficus hillii trees, this area resembles a garden room.

"Creating structure within a garden is important," says Shafer. "This can be done formally or informally, however it is important to consider proportion to create spaces or garden rooms that complement the architectural style of the house."

For more information on landscape design, contact Robin Shafer, phone (09) 420 4412, mob 021 717 377. For details of paving, contact Jagas Paving, phone (09) 274 1077. Website: www.jagas.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas