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Our team was engaged to design some major cosmetic updates to refresh the aesthetic and functionality of the outdoor spaces of this property by the water.  The client’s kids had grown up and no longer needed an active play area and the incredible site made moving location out of the question. We designed some seamless garden upgrades that cater to a sophisticated adults’ day-to-day lifestyle, as well as entertaining and recreation on weekends and holidays.

The design inspiration was a fresh Mediterranean approach – a style that is exemplified by simplicity and resonates chic, effortless vibes.  We painted all the walls white and kept this theme across the whole project.  The white-on-white dominant palette is punctuated with the rich blue of the horizon where sky and sparkling water meet.

We nestled oversized white sandstone stepping pads into the lawn to create another usable area and add some natural texture.  The relaxed planting growing in-between, allow this area to feel earthed into the sunken garden surrounded by lush planting.  The cantilevered umbrella provides relief from the sun whilst the fire pit allows for dreamy night-time use when the temperature drops.  For a comfortable conversation setting, we placed a three-seater and two-seater sofa in an L-shaped configuration that is the perfect place to soak up the incredible vista.

The bones of the outdoor kitchen were retained and we simply freshened everything up with smart new, white, V-groove outdoor cabinetry to bring in some texture which allows a better fit for the outdoors, and ‘Clear Skies’ Outdoor Caesarstone benchtop that runs up the splashback too.  Being out in the open we thought it best to go with the concrete grey colour to reduce unwanted levels of glare. We avoided using handles on the cabinetry, keeping the look paired back and allowing the benchtop and panelling to be the ‘hero’. The appliances were simply cleaned and polished to look brand new. This was a simple cosmetic outdoor kitchen renovation, yet we achieved maximum impact as it gave the whole outdoor area a fresh new look.

All areas were dressed with white pots throughout the garden and balconies and harbour style furniture to suit the soft, fresh, easy design approach.

The Mediterranean style planting worked well on this project as the species are hardy and can stand the exposed waterfront location. The hedges were rejuvenated and more sculptural planting was added for interest and texture. 

The sun-kissed Mediterranean easy breezy style by the water is a lifestyle that never gets tired and we’ve been able to achieve that timeless aesthetic with the revitalisation of this garden.

Photography Brigid Arnott