Mim Downes, Ivanhoe

We joined this project after construction of the new home was already well underway, with the brief focused on maximising the use of the site for a busy family with four children.

The design includes a welcoming front garden that provides safe and easy access from a busy road, with a planting palette selected to complement the architecture of the home. The rear garden features a swimming pool, synthetic sports turf area, and generous open space for active outdoor play. An original rear laneway access, no longer required, was cleverly repurposed as a sports pitch, creating a valuable extension of the garden.

Particular care was taken with the pool fencing to ensure safety requirements were met without visually dividing the space or interrupting views from the kitchen. Layered planting provides privacy from neighbouring properties while creating a sense of depth and making the garden feel larger than its footprint.

The result is a practical, low-maintenance garden that supports an active family lifestyle, allowing more time to be spent enjoying the outdoors together.