Contrast and connection

Designed by Goom Landscapes

From the landscape designers:

The design intent for this project revolves around the idea of achieving a harmonious balance between contrast and connection. 

The underlying concept that drove the design thinking and decision-making was to create a space that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings while standing out as a unique and aesthetically pleasing addition to the existing house. 

A major factor influencing the concept was the desire to protect natural light while creating a shaded and cooled space.

The site presented several challenges, including its flat and tight nature. 

It was hemmed in by the rear side of the neighbours' roofline, which dominated the existing space. 

To overcome these limitations, the design aimed to maximise the available space and create a design that would complement and enhance the site rather than overwhelm it.

The design concept drew inspiration from the existing architecture to ensure that the new addition would have a strong visual impact and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the house. 

The goal was to lift the simple aesthetic of the existing structure by introducing complementary features that would create interest and visual appeal.

Shading and light

Given the northwestern orientation of the site, the design needed to address the challenge of maintaining a comfortable and cooled space indoors and outdoors while not disrupting the entry of natural light into the house. 

This was achieved by incorporating elements that provide shade without completely blocking the light, creating a delicate balance between the two.

Connection and room creation

One of the key design decisions was the positioning of the fireplace, which was strategically situated to help create distinct rooms within the space. 

By carefully positioning the fireplace, the design achieved a functional division of space while maintaining an open and connected atmosphere.

Materials and roof design

To enhance the overall design impact, different materials were chosen for the roof. 

This decision contributed to the contrast and visual appeal of the space, while also allowing for the controlled entry of light into the indoors and outdoors.

White lines as key design feature

A significant design element was the incorporation of white lines throughout the space. 

These white lines served both functional and aesthetic purposes. 

Functionally, they helped define and delineate different areas, while in aesthetic terms, they added a visually striking element that clearly communicated and enhanced the design concept.

Louvre roof

The crowning jewel is the bespoke louvre style roof, using a large covering pane of glass and slats, which provides control over sunlight and shade. 

This versatile addition ensures that our outdoor space is ideal for any weather condition. 

A cosy gas fire instantly transforms the outdoor area into a welcoming sanctuary during chilly evenings, for either relaxed solitude or socialising.

The result is a visually appealing and functional addition that seamlessly integrates with the existing space while making a bold statement of its own

Plantings

The homeowner wanted larger grade plants given they were elderly and wanted their garden to be ready to enjoy immediately. 

The brief provided for an English style courtyard but to a smaller scale, dictated by the size of the property. 

We visited and selected from a number of nurseries, including our own, to ensure the quality of the plants met the owners’ expectations. 

The colour palette was soft, focused on green and white (with hints of red to tie in with existing tulips in other locations on the property). 

The owners referred to cottage style gardens, with tight over planting to create a lush lineal impression. 

The site was a flat courtyard, in which raised planters had been introduced. 

Plus, the site is north west facing, therefore tracking the sun throughout the day. 

Due to the position of the house, the site was protected well from the easterly wind. 

A vertical louvre had also been installed which also helped minimise wind and better informed our planting selection. 

Selecting plants which accommodate the Canterbury climate was a focus in the plant selection. 

Soil/compost mix was introduced to give the planting its most advantageous start. 

As our design took in most of the property in a holistic sense, we didn't have to work in with existing vegetation, with the exception of some driveway planting. 

Softened aesthetic

As the architecture had a bold, stark feel to it, our planting design softened this aesthetic

The fact that the plants have shown abundant growth and good health after approximately two years further supports the appropriateness of the selection. 

The selection included plants of appropriate size and density to achieve the desired fullness. 

The selected plants create a positive relationship and interaction with the structures introduced in the landscape. 

As it is a tight space, it was important to select plants with a vertical presence which didn’t make the space feel cluttered and overwhelmed once established. 

The owner’s preference for a green and white colour palette was incorporated in the selection, achieving a clear sense of a theme and identity throughout the garden. 

This works cohesively with the colours utilised in the hardscaping, softening and supporting the aesthetic of the structures rather than dominating them. 

An irrigation system utilising a timer reduces water usage while maintaining the health of the plants. 

Mulch was used to reduce water loss and mitigate weed growth. 

Plants were sourced from local nurseries where appropriate, and the hardscaping elements in the garden were constructed using local materials where possible. 

Story by: Trendsideas