Outdoor oasis

•Thank you so much for sharing the details of your garden and your wonderful enthusiasm for natural, comfortable design

•After studying the circulation and usage patterns in your backyard, I identified a central focal point to serve as the heart of the project: a vibrant flower-filled area with a cozy seating nook. This space connects the pool, the shed, and the sunken garden through soft, flowing pathways that enhance movement and visual harmony.

•Sunken Garden: I proposed pathways that link the sunken garden to the surrounding elements, complemented by soft ambient lighting carefully distributed to create a romantic evening atmosphere without visual clutter.

•Deck-to-Garden Elevation Transition: To address the grade difference between the deck and the garden, I suggested installing a transparent glass railing to preserve the view, and planting Salal along the edges. As a native species, Salal thrives in your climate and forms a lush, natural screen.

•Planting and Biodiversity: A diverse selection of plants and shrubs was chosen with attention to Victoria’s climate zone (9a/8b), ensuring compatibility in form, water needs, and seasonal interest. The focus is on pollinator-friendly species that attract bees and butterflies, creating a rich and inviting habitat.

•Shading the Seating Area: For shade, I recommend a fixed metal structure above the seating zone, fitted with retractable awnings that can be extended in summer and retracted in winter. This solution offers flexible comfort while preserving views and withstanding the site’s frequent winds.