Completed Garden Transformations

From dream to reality. See how I’ve collaborated with homeowners to transform their uninspiring outdoor spaces into their special places.

How I Turned a Formal Front Yard into a Relaxing Coastal Oasis

Castaways Beach, QLD.

A landscape design and construction project that transformed a beachside house with natural materials and native plants.

My client wanted a relaxed coastal feel for their front yard, so I replaced the black panel fence with upright hardwood sleepers that matched the weathered timber on the house. I also replaced the exotic plants with native plants that suited the coastal environment, such as banksias, westringias, and casuarinas. I added some light and airy grasses, such as lomandra and themeda, to create movement and softness. The focal point of the garden was a stunning grass tree that added height and character.

I used bluestone steppers to create a path from the street to the front door, and placed a large feature boulder near the grass tree to create interest and balance. I also added some corten steel house numbers to the fence, which gave a modern edge.

The result was an inviting coastal garden that made my client very happy and attracts positive comments from friends, family, and passersby. They loved how their front yard looked like an extension of the beach, and how it reflected their relaxed lifestyle. They also appreciated how easy it was to maintain their garden, as the native plants were drought-tolerant and adapted to the local climate.

What the Homeowner Says

Ian & Jackie, N.

"Justin did an amazing design for our garden. He took the time to really understand the vision we had and match that to the house and surrounding area. Great selection of natives and interesting design features. We could not be any happier with the finished result."

How I Turned a Lifeless Lawn into A Tranquil Wildlife Haven

Nambour, QLD.

Embracing Native Australian Plants for Beauty, Sustainability, and Emotional Well-being.

Published: Backyard Magazine Issue 17.1

My passion for native Australian plants is evident in this front yard garden design.

The garden features permeable surfaces, natural wood and stone, and reclaimed materials, which not only add to its beauty but also make it sustainable.

The circular sitting area created by the construction of a dry stack sandstone wall is a unique feature that doubles as a seat for sitting around a firepit located in the middle of the circle. Hidden from street view, this provides the residents with a private and peaceful space to sit in the garden.

The garden’s uniquely Australian character is sure to inspire others to welcome native plants into their own gardens and support wildlife. It provides a peaceful and inspiring welcome to the residence and presentation from the street and daily experiences of joy and calm for the homeowners.