Phillip Withers, Blairgowrie

Set on a generous 2,700 square metre block on the Mornington Peninsula, this garden was designed by Phillip Withers in response to the nearby Blairgowrie foreshore. The intention was to capture the experience of walking along the coast, using planting, rock and winding paths to create a garden that unfolds gradually.

The design began with what was already there. Two established box elders and a coastal tea tree were retained, providing maturity within what was otherwise a new landscape. From this starting point, a coastal planting palette was developed, combining grasses, shrubs, perennials and sculptural species with productive planting.

The arrival sets the tone. Large Dromana rocks form a naturalistic entrance, set among coastal trees including Banksia integrifolia and Banksia marginata. These elements continue through the garden, where winding paths lead to a series of spaces including the pool, tennis and basketball courts, barbecue area and fire pit.

The fire pit is anchored by a particularly large boulder, affectionately known as ‘Jaws’. Planting softens the recreational areas and draws them together, allowing the garden to remain a continuous experience rather than a collection of separate spaces.

Around the pool, grasses and perennials in greens, blues and pinks move with the breeze, contrasted with sculptural species including grass trees, Gymea lilies and century plants. Edible trees including lemon, orange, olive, pomegranate and feijoa add colour, seasonal interest and a productive element.

For garden lovers, the interest lies in seeing how a new landscape can respond to its surroundings without simply replicating them. What began as open lawn has developed into a layered garden with a strong coastal character. Large Dromana rocks, coastal planting, softer perennials, productive trees and generous family spaces create a garden to wander through, with something different to discover around every bend.