Ben Hutchinson, Heathmont

This newly established native garden in Heathmont showcases the possibility of what can be achieved with a sloping block in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The site, chosen for its magnificent views of the Dandenong Ranges, offered the owners a great opportunity to create their dream garden.

Careful planning of zones across the ⅓ acre block enabled the space to accommodate multiple aesthetic, functional and productive spaces.The design includes a large natural water feature, a lush lawn, raised vegetable planters and easy-access meandering paths that lead to a fire pit area at the top of the block to take in the views of the Dandenongs.

The landscaping was completed shortly after the owners built their forever home, and their vision was to have unobstructed views of a large pond and waterfall from their outdoor and indoor living spaces. Outside, the entertaining area warmly invites the views of the pond and waterfall into the space giving a sense of connection to nature. Inside, the kitchen and living areas look out to this impressive display and continue to be enjoyed when the sun goes down and the pond lights illuminate the accents across the feature.

Australian native and indigenous plants take pride of place in this backyard to attract a multitude of wildlife; native birds, frogs, lizards and an abundance of beneficial insects have already moved in adding to the biodiversity of the garden. The rear of the property is now home to a grove of Wolgan Snowgums (Eucalyptus gregsoniana), in front of which is an abundance of colourful flowering native plants and grasses, including Black Kangaroo paws, Boronias, Hakea victoriae and profusion of indigenous wildflowers. The water feature, containing native aquatic plants and ferns along with the beloved waterlily, complements the Australian native aesthetic of the space.

This young garden will continue to bring much joy to its owners over the coming years as it grows and matures into the vibrant native bushland setting that it is destined to become.