28/05/2026
Working beneath a mature eucalyptus required a design response that engaged with the site as it existed rather than attempting to overcome it.
Sloping east to west, this Surrey Hills garden presented a series of challenging conditions — compacted soil, significant root competition, dry shade pockets and exposure to harsh western afternoon sun.
For this garden, I focused on creating a resilient planting framework capable of settling naturally into these constraints.
The hardscape needed to connect to existing rear garden and the architecture of the period home, while responding to the Clients’ desire for a less formal arrival sequence.
Limestone steppers, reclaimed timber seating and a lawn area give moments of pause within the landscape.
Layered perennial and ornamental grass plantings drift around evergreen domes beneath the tree canopy, bringing softness, movement and seasonal change to the garden.
Rather than resisting the site conditions, the design embraces them — resulting in an immersive, textural landscape that softens the hardscape and continues to evolve over time.
Landscape Design:
Construction:
