New Order

A profusion of textures lies at the core of this serene, modern Johannesburg garden

- Tess Paterson

Tucked away in a leafy complex in Joburg’s Inanda, there’s a pleasing dichotomy to this compact garden. For starters, there’s the low-rise entrance – simple wooden gates set into a slate wall – which is flanked by two vast charcoal planters. It’s the antithesis of the triple-garage arrival often associated with estate living. By contrast, it says, ‘Come on in, the gates are only here to keep the pets inside.’ ‘We wanted to create a sense of welcome,’ says landscaper Gregory Mark. ‘From the driveway, you head towards the residence via a timber-decked courtyard. The overscaled pots are repeated at the front door, and it’s here that the full indoor-outdoor impact is revealed.’