Some of our favourite projects have been the result of implementing a design which embraces clients' wishes together with the character of the surrounding landscape. Good design is tied to a sensory engagement with our surroundings, so we always try to capture the essence of our clients’ personalities and aspirations in their landscape and interior plans.

We look at gardens as a microcosm of feeling and being, as the simple act of gardening can often inspire tranquility. In our garden design in Canberra, we collaborated with our clients on a cohesive Australian garden design that included elements of Japanese culture to honour the heritage of our clients. They sought a garden that would be beautiful in all seasons, enabling them to absorb the atmosphere of a unique garden and to soak in the winter sun; an important element for them.

The starting point was the front garden, intended to be a warm welcome with grasses, daisies and ground covers to give a appearance all year round. Included is a gingko tree, planted on the north side - facing out to the strong winds of the Brindabella ranges - which would gracefully dance in the wind. A custom, minimalistic, wrought iron sculpture based on the Golden Sun Moth - a threatened native species that lives in the reserve across the road - was added as a focal point in the backyard. The elements of fire and water were incorporated through two shallow pools which flanked a small shade structure. This in turn looks out onto an open fire pit, embedded in an expanse of gravel. These earthy textures connect the site to the surrounding landscape whilst suggesting a connection to Japan. This connection to place is very important for our clients, so this is a way to remind them of their entanglement with nature.

We also implemented similar ideals in a project in Mentone, advising clients on their facade choice. The family were in the middle of a new home construction and were navigating the colour selection presented by the builders, but were confounded by the heavy palette of greys and steel.

With reference to the local landscape, we encouraged our clients to consider a more muted, timeless palette which featured nougat tones (as opposed to the dark, heat-absorbing colours promoted by the builder) and a custom tumbled interlock masonry feature in a sandy hue - instead of the metal bar effect which would not have related to the natural geology & scenery of the Phillip Bay locale.

What are your thoughts on design reflecting the local landscape and a sense of place?