Serene outlook award-winning garden by Rolling Stone Landscapes

When landscape architects create a design for a garden show, they are both client and creator. Free of site limitations and customer preferences, the scope for personal expression is far greater.

This project, entitled Reflections, was created by Dean Herald from Rolling Stone Landscapes as his entry in the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show. The lush design won Best in Show, as well as other prestigious awards. The concept was to depict the struggle that many individuals have with anxiety and depression and the road to healing they need to undertake, says Herald.

"To evoke this idea symbolically, I created a path of stepping stones leading from the entry up towards the covered pavilion at the upper end of the site," says Herald. "The initial pavers are wide, and then they become narrower as you progress implying that the path to recovery gets easier and the steps become shorter as you journey towards it.

"The steps culminate in a sharp left turn onto the pavilion symbolising turning a corner from depression towards serenity and security."

The pavilion, constructed in wood and steel, is like an enveloping sculpture, and provides a suitable end to the journey.

"Seen from the garden, the pavilion fireplace is reflected in the water both life symbols. The two loungers imply companionship and the value of talking things through one-on-one.

"An open-air bathing space features in another area of the tranquil design. This creates a romantic, removed visual focus suggesting loss, or possibly yet-to-be found happiness."

However, while the garden was created as a visual journey, it also had to be practical. The pavilion offers a sheltered place to spend time.

Story by: Charles Moxham