GREEN ON GREEN

With a restrained planting palette and an emphasis on lush layers, this garden is a place of endless serenity

The luxuriant gardens to the side and rear of this Adelaide home aren't just a source of joy for the owners. They provide the littlest member of the family-Max the Frug (a French Bulldog-Pug mix) - with places to explore and shady spots to snooze in.

When the homeowners approached landscape architect Peter Adley, director of Yardstick Landscapes, and Nick Scaife, fellow director and construction coordinator, they had a clear vision. "They wanted a structured rear garden with clean lines and green-on-green foliage. For the side garden, they wanted a relaxed, shaded space which would provide a stunning view from the large opening window and window seat," says Peter.

Peter's approach to the design was restrained and ordered, yet softened with foliage. The look is timeless and the perfect complement to the home extension designed and built by Glasshouse Projects.

"The strong geometry and clever spatial arrangement of the generous back garden expands on the covered alfresco entertaining space. Materials such as the charcoal-coloured concrete paving flow from the home and front garden through to the boundary fence, creating a sense of cohesion," says Peter.