Inner-City Sustainable

This small terrace is making a giant contribution to the environment withits self-sustaining and eco-friendly qualities

- Karsha Green

In one of the hottest and driest summers in Newcastle’s history, this terrace home in Cooks Hill underwent a major transformation. When it came to redesigning the home’s courtyard, the biggest challenge was that it had to be self-sustainable. Mark Tisdell from MUD Design was employed to reimagine this small space and create a warm and wholesome spot with functional elements, including an area to wash off after the beach, hidden storage, space to entertain friends and family, and a self-watering, permaculture ecosystem that supported local wildlife. To achieve all of this in a tiny terrace courtyard wasn’t going to be easy, but together with builder Anthony Ferguson from Green on Green Landscapes, and Lachlan Storrie from Tree Frog Permaculture, Mark and MUD Design were willing to take on the challenge.

“The brief was to create a garden that made best use of the space, aspect and privacy. It needed to be very sustainable, incorporate recycled materials, create a habitat for local birds and insects, and facilitate the growing of food,” says Mark.