MIX & MATCH

An old inner-city worker’s cottage has been revitalised with a contemporary extension and entertainer’s courtyard garden.

Material matters

Old and new dovetail triumphantly in this compact Melbourne garden. The old brick cottage recently had a contemporary extension added, with views to an old stables (pictured). The owners wanted their outdoor space to reflect the modern lines of the new extension, yet reference the history of the site. In response, landscape designer Lachie Anderson has combined recycled brick and chunky, weathered timbers with bluestone paving, integrated concrete seating and

LED lighting. The pergola is not intended as a shade structure; rather, it is a sculptural link for the different textures, says Lachie. A fire pit is centrally placed under the pergola, perfect for winter gatherings. Planting is kept to a minimum because of the desire for a lowmaintenance garden but there is still a lush green presence. Lachie Anderson Landscapes; (03) 9822 9970 or lachieanderson.com.au.

Sir Walter Buffalo grass forms a living carpet between large bluestone stepping stones and a crepe myrtle ( Lagerstroemia ‘ Natchez’). Around the corner is a bed filled with herbs and a lemon tree, and in front of the stables is a row of Murraya...