Outcrop House, Palm Beach

Resting gently on a hilltop overlooking beautiful Whale Beach, this garden feels like it belongs. It enhances the sense of place – almost like it has naturally evolved from the earth over time – in accord with the rocky outcrops and sandy beaches below. Harmonising new design elements with the natural environment and an existing garden scheme was the key to creating a practical and aesthetically pleasing landscape. At the heart of the development was the need to integrate existing features, such as a yoga deck, steel rods lining the pathways, and sculptural pieces that had been carefully placed within the space. Given the demands of the steep site, the plant palette includes varieties that are environmentally sensitive and help to stabilise the hillside and prevent erosion. Our selection includes Casuarina glauca ‘Green Wave’ (Casuarina She-Oak), Doryanthes excelsa (Gymea Lily) and Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny Saltbush). Clusters of Casuarina glauca ‘Green Wave’ (Casuarina She-Oaks) have been shaped into balls to mimic the rocky landforms and undulating landscape. They also speak to the striking architecture of the house designed by Peter Stutchbury Architecture. Each element has been connected and considered to create a peaceful retreat for our clients and provide a haven for local bandicoots and native birds. PROJECT TEAM Garden Design Nicola Cameron, Josh Arkey Architect Peter Stutchbury Architecture Garden Installation & Maintenance Pepo Botanic Design Photography Nick Bowers