Definition LanDscape & Design

Mixed MediaWith a comfortable and much loved home on one of Brisbane’s lakes, the couple who lived there were keen to maximise their expansive outdoor areas around the pool and overlooking the lake. Unfortunately, the original materials both around the pool and elsewhere had passed their used-by date, allowing the owners to plan a full revamp. “it was a plan that evolved,” said andrew, “as we contemplated the possibilities with Joseph from Definition Landscape and Design.”

Landscaping projects

The pool coping was replaced and the level lowered slightly to bring all areas into alignment before new 600x400 sandstone pavers were laid, replacing the original clay pavers. With new waterline tiles, the family had a new look pool which was complemented by glass pool fencing.

Closer to the house and under the protected outdoor living area, Joseph has introduced Merbau decking which extends out on two levels to the area overlooking the lake. The step-down from one level to another is only two steps, but that allows the family to see more of the lily-clad lake, and has allowed Joseph to create garden beds with edging wide enough to make a comfortable seat. “This area along the edge of the lake was originally a hedge which totally obscured the view,” said Joseph, “now the family can always see it, either from the outdoor dining area or from the seating around the garden beds.

The magnificent ponytail palm has been retained from the original garden, and Nambucca river rock, zyosia and cardboard plants (a type of cycad) create an island of green between the deck and the pool. At night, LED lights outline the features of this extensive project which the owner tells us has made an amazing difference to the way the family use their outdoor area - all in a good way!

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Curving GentlyEven gardens need a facelift sometimes, and the front of this inner suburban home in an established area has certainly benefitted from the design talents of Joseph Nagel of Definition Landscape and Design. Taking his inspiration from the curved front steps leading up to the porch, Joseph has taken the original square front garden and rounded it with sandstone block edging to create a gentle curve for the new garden beds which form a perimeter around the lawn. A small retaining wall solves the problem of evening out the levels, and merges into the garden edging. Iceberg roses against the front fence are edged with gazanias which turn their pretty faces to sun each day.

In the centre of the lawn Joseph has planted a specimen tree, Tabebuia palmeri, a hardy and fast growing deciduous tree which is adorned with bright pink bell shaped flowers in winter and spring, and which will provide shade in summer. A white arbour and gate house are a very pretty entrance, and against a hedge of murraya a bench seat provides space to contemplate the new-look garden. In time, the camellias which Joseph has planted in front of the murrayas will add colour and a two dimensional effect as they are kept to half the height of the existing hedge.

And this garden is not just lovely by day - at night, garden lighting throughout gives a whole new reason to enjoy this refurbished and refreshed garden space.

Definition LanDscape & Design

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