During stage one of this renovation and extension project, the owners felt that in the future they may like to have a pool, so the initial design factored this in by leaving the area directly off the rear of the house free of garden (which would be destroyed should a pool go in later).

Instead, this was left as an open field of grass for the children to play on.

We were then engaged later, once the owners had firmly decided to go ahead with the pool

While Wallas Architects designed the pool, the pool fencing, the rear amenity and finishes such as pool tiling, we were engaged to create a planting design which would enhance and complement the pool design with lush tropical, resort style planting.

With the area already allocated for the potential of the pool, all that was required pre introducing the design was the excavation of turf and soil for the pool.

We employed a variety of plantings, to suit the various needs of the landscape design.

Heliconias was introduced along the side boundary to soften and conceal the neighbouring dwelling and also offer a lush tropical theme.

Lush planting was used throughout and specifically around the rear amenity to bed the pool structure into the landscape and make it feel as though it was rising up from the planting.

We used a mix of native grasses for ground covers while structural planting included the Gymea lily.

Several lovely native Tuckeroo trees offer height, contrast, privacy and varying textures

Bluestone steppers surrounded with grasses and ground covers create a relaxed and informal pathway around the pool and the crazy paving gives a really fun vibe while picking up the curves and geometry of the pool and outdoor amenity.

The combination of soft and structural planting helps to soften all the built elements – at the same time offering some structure to the planting pallet. 

Other plants seen in this design include Heliconias (seen along the fences).

See the related house renovation story