The humble backyard is now, more than ever, an extension of the house, providing the backdrop for all sorts of activities with pools, fireplaces and thoughtfully selected furniture that continue an aesthetic from lounge to lawn.
We talked with local landscaper Dave Paddy of Nikau Landscapes and landscape designer Fiona Webster, to understand just how versatile our outdoor spaces have become. Fiona is the owner and principal landscape designer of Fiona Webster Landscape Design and has a lifelong passion for design, the landscape and well-executed outdoor spaces. Dave is a landscaper with a decade working on landscaping projects in and around the Ponsonby suburbs.
Our backyards are truly coming into their own, worthy of a luxurious blanket to keep us warm at night and lasting decor that will stand the test of time. According to both Dave and Fiona, it is part of an overall trend to turn backyards into outdoor rooms. It’s a mind shift about our connection with outdoor environments, they are no longer the poor cousins on the property.
Of course, as we become more conscious and mindful of how and what we consume, our outdoor spaces are also reclaiming their role as producers. Not only are they areas to sculpt into alfresco entertainment sanctuaries but they are also an opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint and grow a few essentials for our kitchen as well as being a means to recycle and re-use our waste. Dave believes that people are increasingly making choices that reduce their carbon footprint. “Composting, edible gardens, beehives and native planting that are attractive to birds are all becoming more and more popular,” says Dave.
For some, having gardens that contribute to the pantry have always been desired but, as Fiona points out, vegetable gardens are a bit of work and good planning and execution are key. “They are all wonderful items to incorporate because of the benefits they deliver to the home and garden, but they do require a certain degree of commitment, education and often, significant upfront expense. However, the rewards are well worth having if they are properly implemented.”
Dave agrees; even keeping a simple design looking good can be a challenge. “Unless you are a really keen gardener, it is always a good idea to get someone in to do regular maintenance. I would suggest three to four times a year to keep things tidy and growing well and more regularly if you want more of a manicured look,” he says. Combining veggie gardens in with an overall landscaped look can be achieved with good design and Dave has run a number of projects that have done this very well.
Many people believe that quality landscaping can be one of the most effective ways to add value to your home. Local agent Keith Dowdle of Custom Residential Real Estate agrees. “Landscaping is certainly a key component of the homes in our area. Given the comparatively small sites in Grey Lynn and Ponsonby, it becomes an integral part of the quality of lifestyle on offer. The link between indoor and outdoor is a key selling feature.”
The trends in landscape architecture and design change over time and, as well as pools, outdoor rooms with sophisticated elements are a growing trend. “Over the last few years I have been asked to design outdoor rooms that specifically incorporate opening and closing louvres in the roof structure and gas or traditional wood-burning, outdoor fireplaces,” says Fiona. “Kiwis have an innate connection with the outdoors and we just love living outside as much as or more than being indoors, even when it’s pouring with rain and blowing a gale.” The demand for landscapers and landscape design continues to be high. “Pools are becoming ever more popular. I currently have five landscape projects with pools in them on the go at the moment,” says Dave.
As pool areas and outdoor rooms continue to be an integral part of landscape design, the common outdoor picnic table is no longer enough. In fact, outdoor furniture is now just as sophisticated as pieces within the home. Investing in styles that continue your home’s aesthetic and are designed to last is the key to choosing well. “You can make your outdoor living space feel more luxurious and inviting with soft, outdoor furnishings such as outdoor cushions, a basket full of cosy merino or cashmere blankets to wrap up in on cooler mornings and evenings,” explains Fiona. She believes it is super important to look at the quality of the materials for outdoor furniture because of our very harsh UV conditions and weather patterns.
“Outdoor furniture should be able to withstand the weather and pass the test of time – you really want to get 10-plus years out of your outdoor furniture investment.”
Her suggestion, if your budget allows, is an outdoor rug made from a suitable UV/weather-resistant and non-slip fabric. It’s a gorgeous addition – and a fabulous way to make an outdoor space feel luxurious and inviting all year round. “My new favourite addition to outdoor spaces at the moment are Gan Rugs, particularly the Garden Layers Collection designed by Patricia Urquiola, which are outstanding,” says Fiona.
“I always make suggestions for outdoor furniture items within a landscape concept plan, as this really helps my clients understand how the space can be used and demonstrates the connections between areas in a way they can relate to. It’s also an easy way to show the scale of a space,” explains Fiona. She also recommends selecting a neutral colour palette with pops of pastels and dusty tones to ensure these items stand the test of time. “Think navy, dusty purples and pinks, lemon yellow, sage, copper, black. The Garden Party in Ponsonby Road has a wonderful selection of items for outdoor (and indoor) living. Adding splashes of colour is a great way to welcome the spring and summer months.”
With spring well and truly underway, it is the perfect time to get landscape projects started. While it would be a challenge to get a large-scale landscape project or pool completed before Christmas, it is certainly possible to enhance your outdoor sanctuary before this summer is out.
Celebrate New Zealand garden design excellence at the Auckland Garden DesignFest
(Saturday 16 - Sunday 17 November).
Raising funds for selected children’s charities, tour through 18 of Auckland’s most beautiful, professionally designed, private gardens and meet some of New Zealand’s leading garden design talent.
We have two double passes to give away! RRP of tickets: $130 each (per double pass)
Go to our Instagram @ponsonbynews
#GardenDesignFest for competition details Winners will be drawn on Thursday 31 October.
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