Oasis in the city

Landscaping by Humphreys Landscaping

Design intent

It was of critical importance to achieve a visually attractive garden. The new garden needed to provide a private and comfortable outdoor living environment for the owner. We wanted to work with the owners and their architect to create a unique garden to complement their new home.

• We proposed new coastal planting which was required between the water's edge and the house. Given the location, conditions and climate, native species dominate this planting (below the pool) to be sympathetic to the local environment.
• Suitable planting was suggested to the proposed roof gardens adjacent to the front door entrance way. We worked with the architect and structural engineer to ensure a sufficient depth of soil and loading tolerance was allowed for.
• The owners’ new garden was designed to provide a low maintenance appeal overall with sufficient lawn and entertaining space, given the scale of the proposed house and site.
• A beach side terrace was also included to complement the architect’s proposed cabana. Steps to the beach were built around an existing mature Puriri tree and other Pohutukawas were also retained.

• Functional spaces have been set aside and screened to accommodate clotheslines, bin storage and other storage requirements.
• The glasshouse was incorporated into the design to provide an area to entertain as well as grow warm climate plants. This area also includes a semi circular seating area to take full advantage of the sea views.
• Succulents were used in pots to ensure survival in harsh conditions.
• Planting was carefully designed to privatise the owners’ house from neighbouring properties.
• In overview – a combination of screening hedges, large trees and bamboo surround the edges of the property to provide privacy for the sub-tropical inner areas of the garden which includes large palms and low lush planting. 

In summary

A combination of screening hedges, large trees and bamboo surround the edges of the property to provide privacy for the sub-tropical inner areas of the garden which includes large palms and low lush planting. 

This project represents the height of inner city landscaping and construction. 

Tough site conditions, access, surrounding neighbourhood and an extensive timeline added to many complexities throughout the project however the end result means the client has this peaceful, mature garden that represents exactly what they were wanting within their property.

The successful implementation of all aspects of the project was recognised with its award of Supreme Winner in the 2021 Registered Master Landscape awards.

Designed by: Humphreys Landscaping

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Simon Devitt