Note: This garden was opened in 2022
This garden is located in the heart of the Buninyong township, backing onto the De Soza Park through which runs the Union Jack Creek.
The park itself lends much to the beauty of this garden where visual boundaries have been minimised. Having made the move down closer into the town from nearby Mount Buninyong, the owner’s request was an emphasis on the outlook to the park and native bush surrounding the creek. The garden has become an extension of that natural environment. Just a short walk from the back gate through the park brings you right into the village shops. The sweeping curves of the garden paths help to both reduce steepness for access and allow the garden to dominate when viewed from the back deck or within the house. The walking tracks through the park are used extensively throughout the year and give walkers a wonderful display of vibrant flowers and habitat through this garden’s native plantings, which soften the curved drystone walls from which the terraces are formed.
The open nature of this native garden in no way reduces the intimacy or functionality of the garden. One is greeted with the sound of running water when entering the garden from a water feature beside a stone herb wheel. Thoughtfully placed wicking beds and composting areas provide a productive zone for vegetables and fruit. A sheltered fernery leads through to a walled courtyard garden with corten steel garden beds and wonderful changing displays of flowers.
While once very disconnected from the bush at the rear of the property, the removal of a brick garage and large asphalt driveway, and an extension and renovation has made way for the garden as we see it today.
The transformation of this space and the ‘feel’ of this garden really is testament to how garden and architectural design can enhance the lifestyle of the occupant. And through the careful consideration of both together, a balance and harmony has been achieved.