Lesley’s main concerns were how to plant up the steep banks and poor, rocky soil on her property. It’s hard to do planting on a slope with such a steep gradient.

The landscape posed unique challenges for creating a functional and aesthetic outdoor space.

Retaining walls are an excellent solution for steep slopes, creating level spaces for planting.

Lesley has done a great job creating calm continuity by repeating the dark grey colour throughout the timber structures - stairs, walls and deck.

The details of laying planks on the deck at a slight angle, contrasting brick colour and the little corner of gravel with pots is genius!

Plants that suited the conditions were put into the new beds and along the pathways – the Lomandra grasses bring modern and old together and year-round interest.

The steps are a masterpiece in safety and beauty and the new retaining walls change the entire planting opportunities – it’s a cost that is worth it in the long run, especially if this is your long-term home.