A beautifully detailed architectural home set on a clifftop site in Birkenhead Point. There had been attempts to plant and provide areas for enjoyment, but they ultimately were not fit for purpose or suit the home and surrounding landscape. A cohesive plan was required.

Native Bush flanked the property with mature Pohutukawa reaching over to the rooftop courtyard. The house steps down a slope creating a journey with the opportunity for pocket gardens and feature planting viewed from the interior on two levels.

The client is a bonsai enthusiast having lived in Japan, the gardens there much admired. The materials used on the house with crafted contemporary simplicity are strongly influenced by Japanese architecture. This along with the native bush and the elevated coastal position became the inspiration for the landscape design.

The existing rectangular lawn and the wilder naturalistic landscape beyond were at odds with each other. The decision was made to extend out into the natural area with a light touch and bring the natural plantings closer to the house, unifying the garden. We created a curved lawn with deep garden beds set within the fence line and selected native planting to envelop the blade fence, disguising and blending it into the wider landscape. Feature corten circular raised planters house cloud clipped Podocarpus gracilior, like giant versions of bonsai, underplanted with simple black mondo to provide a focus within the garden nearest the house.

The Karaka tree in the near distance with its bluestone paver path threading through the coastal planting has become a favourite spot to relax in, sheltered under the canopy. With the view back towards the house, it provides another experience set deep within the garden.

The front entrance needed further definition. Being set close to the road and neighbouring driveways, diffused privacy was required. A black metal screen with a graphic cut-out resembling the stems of bamboo, also present in the planting design, was created to fit the area. A large matte black pot containing a mature cloud clipped topiary further defines the area. Shadows cast by the screen and tree are a standout feature. The clients say they are delighted every time they approach their home. These two strong artful elements have transformed the area.

Photo Credit - Seed Landscapes