NEW DIRECTION

Previously, access to the pool was via the pergola, which meant a constant stampede of little feet through the outdoor dining area. Nicola’s team installed a new pool fence, moved the pool entry and repaved the whole area. “It works so well now,” says Isabella. “It’s like having another room in the house.” Growing on the outside of the pool fence (left) are Lomandra ‘Katie Belles’ and kangaroo paw ( Anigozanthos flavidus ‘Landscape Lilac’); on the inside are Babingtonia virgata ‘Dwarf’ and mounds of Westringia ‘Aussie Box’.

Strong climber

Scaling the pergola post is fragrant, white-flowering Stephanotis floribunda. “We wanted something scented, with a strong form that would not be messy,” says Nicola. “This ticks all the boxes.”

Border protection

Pre-existing hedges of star jasmine ( Trachelospermum jasminoides) grow along the side fences, a soft backdrop to the new garden. The lawn is Sir Walter buffalo, described by Nicola as “tough and bouncy”.

Sweeping beauty

“Isabella and Matthew are gentle people, and we wanted to reflect that with a garden of soft colours and sweeping layers of plants,” says Nicola. “It’s lovely when all the grasses sway in the breeze.”

Garden of contrasts

“I love that the garden is robust in its materials and plantings but also has gentle surprises, like when the purple-tinged kangaroo paw flowers at the same time as the neighbour’s jacaranda,” says Nicola.

Pave the way

The 600x400mm pavers are sandblasted Anamur limestone from Marble Matters. “With the paving in light grey, we wanted to keep the plant palette to mauve, greys, green-yellow and white,” Nicola explains.