Modern Muse

A space where plants and design elements become one

 

- April Ossington

When designing a garden, some people get too tied up with following a particular style and it becomes over the top or stale.

But why stick to one style when you can take the best components of different looks and roll it all into one fantastic design? Whether you like a beach, contemporary, rustic, Hamptons or formal aesthetic, there is a way of combining your favourite elements into the backyard of your dreams. Such is the beauty of modern garden design. I like to think of it as a fusion of elements that work together to make one whole fully functioning and attractive space. Of course, you can’t just slap a whole bunch of opposing elements together and expect glamorous results, which is why the help of a professional can be invaluable.

The owners of this home in Kotara Heights, NSW, wanted a unique, eye-catching space, suitable for a growing family and entertaining and so they sought the expertise of MUD Landscape Design. “In achieving the design concept, we fused several stylistic elements including contemporary design and tropical plantings, with some inspiration from Japanese garden design, while adhering to the Zen philosophy of minimalism,” says landscape designer and director of MUD, Mark Tisdell.

 

Naturally, the homeowners wanted to showcase the panoramic vista and the beauty of the tree-lined outlook their home offered. “The original garden and rear of the site sloped away from the residence at a 45-degree angle, which was less than ideal,” says Mark. “A retaining wall was erected and the backyard levelled, providing the perfect canvas for our design to come to life!”