Located in Hatfields Beach this 1972 home has the glamourous architecture of the era lending itself beautifully to a modern update. Modern Architecture at this time was designed for functional living, had a relationship to the outdoors and were made with materials in harmony with New Zealand’s native trees and bush. The intention was to create a Design Concept that built on the history of the home and the renovation the clients had already completed giving overall cohesion. We felt we needed a strong design in keeping with the architectural lines of your home and the owners wanted privacy and a sense of enclosure while at home.

The planting needed to be sympathetic to the location that was divided into two groups. - cliffside with magnificent sea views the living area of the home is surrounded by a pohutukawa treeland, flaxland and rockland ecosystem. Planting here needed to be able to cope with salt spray and exposure to strong winds and help erosion. Plant selection on entry to the home, were part of another ecological system. The soil here is acidic, the temperature warmer and the gardens sheltered. We took our design cues for this area from Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve, a 16ha remnant of coastal kauri-broadleaf forest located minutes away- as bird watches and local pest trappers the owners wanted to encourage birds from the reserve to visit their garden.

We mixed native plants, fruiting trees, and lavender bringing colour and interest to the garden all year for the owners, native birdlife and pollinators to enjoy. Our approach was low impact and low care as once established the mini ecosystem will self-support.