Projects
Nelson Road
Clean lines, sculptural architectural features, a restrained palette and a balanced conceptualization of the space have resulted in a well-connected alfresco space that flows naturally between the home and the garden.
Our Nelson Road project, located in South Melbourne was all about creating functionality and form within the limitations of a small space. Primarily the clients wanted a modern courtyard that softened the home; provide privacy to the adjoining neighbor’s, informal alfresco entertaining area, a large lounging deck, a heated plunge pool, optional/flexible shade options as well as an architectural plant pallet to soften the space.
The project was all based around the number one priority being the plunge pool and due to the space being considerably small, every square centimeter was carefully considered. Pushing the pool to the northern boundary was based on a number of facets, one due to the existing in ground water tanks which are located in the middle of the yard as well as maintaining functionality and a sense of space. The pool contains internal wrap around bench seats whilst the pool has been clad in a grey blend glass mosaic pool tile for the added effect for a striking water colour, while the wet edge and reflection pond below completes the stunning architectural feature. The invasive pool fence requirements were nearly completely removed by the clever use of levels and now the only fence required was the gate to the concealed steps.
On the western side of the pool a raised planter has been incorporated and is filled with a striking row of Strelitzia reginae and Echeveria elegans for softening while adding vertical interest to create the feel of height and colour against the timber screens. A new recycled spotted gum deck sits central to the rear yard, which was essential to create cohesion between the home and garden. Placing the deck in the centre of the space made sense but also provided its challenges as we inherited two existing concrete water tanks, which required significant technical elements and engineering to hold the deck and feature cantilevered arbor over the space, however this structure brings the whole courtyard together from an aesthetic and functional point of view. The shade structure consists of engineered black 200mm I and C beams which have been filled with recycled spotted gum timber inserts with shadow lines for a high end look. The posts are set back from the centre of the space to create an open feel to the space and the retractable awning offers flexible shade options.
Large bluestone steppers gives access to the existing garage and is softened by the surrounding Ophiopogon japonicus nanus which has been planted out to form a green carpet. A raised light weight rendered planter runs the length of the deck and spans over one of the underground tanks is filled with three feature Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy bear’ under planted with Gardenia radicans. Another raised rendered planter runs against the northern boundary and is filled with a clipped hedge of Bambusa textilis gracilis. The existing alfresco paved area has been enhanced with a brand new alfresco kitchen featuring a weber BBQ, Bar fridge, Rangehood and cabinetry to complete the picture.
The end result from the brief exceeds all expectations of the clients with the rear focus being the stunning pool that architecturally creates a sculptural artwork feature not only from the external points but also from each internal vista. What we have given them is a design with a simple palette all combined to create a well-balanced space that will stand the test of time.