• Home
    Home
  • Main Portfolio
    Main Portfolio
  • MIFGS 2023
    MIFGS 2023
  • MIFGS 2024
    MIFGS 2024
  • About Us
    About Us
  • Our Process
    Our Process
  • Services
    Services
    • Custom Design
      Custom Design
      • Feng Shui Garden Design
        Feng Shui Garden Design
    • Design Implementation
      Design Implementation
    • Construction & Maintenance
      Construction & Maintenance
    • DIY – DesignedBliss4U
      DIY – DesignedBliss4U
    • Other Services
      Other Services
      • Staging for sale
        Staging for sale
      • Productive gardens
        Productive gardens
      • Rejuvenation projects
        Rejuvenation projects
  • Design Fees & Packages
    Design Fees & Packages
  • Media Publications
    Media Publications
  • Design Resources
    Design Resources
    • FAQs
      FAQs
    • Why use a designer?
      Why use a designer?
    • Ebooks & Videos
      Ebooks & Videos
    • Blog
      Blog
    • Before & After – Glen Waverley Garden Design
      Before & After – Glen Waverley Garden Design
    • Before & After – Blackburn Garden Design
      Before & After – Blackburn Garden Design
    • Before & After – Hawthorn Garden Design
      Before & After – Hawthorn Garden Design
    • Case study – Water Features
      Case study – Water Features
    • Case Study – Productive Garden Design
      Case Study – Productive Garden Design
    • Case study – Vertical Gardens
      Case study – Vertical Gardens
    • Case Study – Vegetable patches
      Case Study – Vegetable patches
    • Case Study – Soil testing
      Case Study – Soil testing
  • Contact Us
    Contact Us
  • Home
    Home
  • Main Portfolio
    Main Portfolio
  • MIFGS 2023
    MIFGS 2023
  • MIFGS 2024
    MIFGS 2024
  • About Us
    About Us
  • Our Process
    Our Process
  • Services
    Services
    • Custom Design
      Custom Design
      • Feng Shui Garden Design
        Feng Shui Garden Design
    • Design Implementation
      Design Implementation
    • Construction & Maintenance
      Construction & Maintenance
    • DIY – DesignedBliss4U
      DIY – DesignedBliss4U
    • Other Services
      Other Services
      • Staging for sale
        Staging for sale
      • Productive gardens
        Productive gardens
      • Rejuvenation projects
        Rejuvenation projects
  • Design Fees & Packages
    Design Fees & Packages
  • Media Publications
    Media Publications
  • Design Resources
    Design Resources
    • FAQs
      FAQs
    • Why use a designer?
      Why use a designer?
    • Ebooks & Videos
      Ebooks & Videos
    • Blog
      Blog
    • Before & After – Glen Waverley Garden Design
      Before & After – Glen Waverley Garden Design
    • Before & After – Blackburn Garden Design
      Before & After – Blackburn Garden Design
    • Before & After – Hawthorn Garden Design
      Before & After – Hawthorn Garden Design
    • Case study – Water Features
      Case study – Water Features
    • Case Study – Productive Garden Design
      Case Study – Productive Garden Design
    • Case study – Vertical Gardens
      Case study – Vertical Gardens
    • Case Study – Vegetable patches
      Case Study – Vegetable patches
    • Case Study – Soil testing
      Case Study – Soil testing
  • Contact Us
    Contact Us
Salvia used in Vermont South landscape design

Creating your dream garden – steps before hiring a “landscaper”

December 25, 2019
-
Construction, Gardens for Life, Home office, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants, Productive gardening, Scented gardens, Seasonal tips
-
Posted by Parveen

Do you want to learn what it takes to create your dream garden? A space that you love to look at and spend time in?

 

We have developed a free comprehensive eBook just for you!

 

This 17-page eWorkbook will help:

  • Map out your existing garden and identify problem areas
  • Brainstorm new ideas
  • Clarify what you want before contacting a landscape designer or contractor

If you are not sure where to start, what to include in your garden and how to put it all together this eWorkbook is for you.

 

Now is the perfect time to jump in, start reading and create your dream garden!

Download the free comprehensive eBook now!

Blackburn

Image Not Found On Media Library

Burwood

Image Not Found On Media Library

Maribyrnong

Image Not Found On Media Library

Wantirna

Image Not Found On Media Library

Brighton

Image Not Found On Media Library

If you need further suggestions or design or plantscaping both indoors and outdoors, please contact us for an onsite 90 minute consultation. 

Refer to our packages for further detail on how we can help you in the consults and subsequently throughout your garden implementation process.

Do check out our Hawthorn project for a detailed discussion on the garden design thought process, complete with before and after pictures.

Our passion your garden! xx

Follow us on social media
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Houzz
Email
PREVIOUS POST
Roses
NEXT POST
Clay soil – how to work with it?

Parveen

Recent Posts
  • How to Use Artistic Expression in Garden Design
  • How Colour and Scent Transform Your Garden Design
  • Maximalism in Garden Landscape Design
  • 8 Budget Friendly Ways to Give Your Garden a Makeover
  • Adding an Arbour to Your Garden
Instagram

inspiringlandscapes.com.au
Isn’t it funny how some things anchor us? In a w Isn’t it funny how some things anchor us? In a world that often feels like it’s moving at a million miles an hour, the simple, grounding constants in life matter more than ever.⁠ ⁠ Your house is more than walls and a roof — it’s your little slice of the world where your story unfolds. Your friends? They’re the people who know how you take your tea, who you text when life feels too big or too dull. And your garden … oh, your garden is where everything breathes.⁠ ⁠ A garden doesn’t just grow flowers — it grows perspective, peace, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a tiny balcony jungle, a sun-drenched courtyard, or a winding backyard path, your garden reflects your mood, memories, and hopes. It’s where life slows down enough for you to feel.⁠ ⁠ Maybe it’s the way the light hits a particular leaf, the daily ritual of watering, pruning, or simply sitting in silence. It’s in those small, quiet moments that we reconnect with ourselves.⁠ ⁠ So today, let’s take a moment to be thankful for the spaces and people that make life feel whole. And if your garden’s looking a little wild? That’s okay. Maybe so are you, and perhaps that’s just perfect.⁠ ⁠
A garden can be much more than a place to grow pla A garden can be much more than a place to grow plants. When you bring artistic expression into garden design, you create a space that reflects who you are, not just what looks good in a catalogue.⁠ ⁠ Artistic expression in the garden is about making intentional choices. It’s the colours that evoke emotion, the shapes that draw your eye, and the materials that create rhythm or contrast. ⁠ ⁠ It might be something like a bold garden sculpture that adds interest to a quiet corner or climbing vines to soften the look of a plain wall. These choices aren’t just about how your garden looks—they help shape how it feels and how you experience the space every day.⁠ ⁠ The best part? There’s no single right way to do it. Whether your space is wild and untamed or sleek and structured, it becomes meaningful when it reflects your perspective and personality.⁠ ⁠ So, if you’re planning a new garden or refining an existing one, ask yourself: What do I want to feel here? From there, design with purpose. Let colour, texture, and structure support that feeling, just like an artist would with a canvas.⁠ ⁠ A well-designed garden doesn’t grow — it communicates. Let yours say something worth listening to. ⁠ ⁠ You can read our latest blog about artistic expression in garden design here: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-to-use-artistic-expression-in-garden-design/⁠ ⁠ 📸Maribyrnong project 2012⁠ ⁠
Just because the temperature’s dropped doesn’t Just because the temperature’s dropped doesn’t mean your garden’s gone into full hibernation. Your plants still need water in a more balanced and mindful way.⁠ ⁠ During the cooler months, overwatering can be just as damaging as underwatering. Roots still need moisture to stay healthy, especially evergreens and newly planted trees or shrubs. And while rainfall might help, it’s often not enough or evenly distributed.⁠ Melbourne seems to be experiencing low rainfall at the moment so please be careful with how much water you’re using to water your garden! ⁠ ✅ Check your soil before watering — if it’s still damp a few inches down, you can hold off.⁠ ✅ Adjust your irrigation timers to avoid overwatering and reduce fungal risk.⁠ ✅ Water during mid-morning so roots absorb moisture before the evening chill sets in.⁠ ⁠ Irrigation isn’t just a summer task — year-round care keeps your garden resilient and ready to thrive come spring! 🌱❄️⁠ ⁠
Ever wandered through a garden and felt instantly Ever wandered through a garden and felt instantly uplifted, calm, or even energised? That’s not by accident—it’s the power of colour in garden design at play.⁠ ⁠ Choosing the right planting scheme is like painting with nature’s palette. Want a peaceful vibe? Go for cool tones like blues, purples, and silvers. Craving drama or excitement? Bold reds, oranges, and yellows can bring the fire! And don’t underestimate green—it’s the ultimate background hero, tying everything together.⁠ ⁠ By thoughtfully mixing colours through your planting choices, you can:⁠ 🌸 Create mood and atmosphere⁠ 🌼 Draw the eye to key areas⁠ 🌻 Make small spaces feel larger—or cozy them up⁠ ⁠ Colour isn’t just pretty—it’s a tool for expression. So whether you’re aiming for harmony, contrast, or a riot of joyful chaos, there’s a colour story waiting to bloom in your garden.⁠ ⁠ #PlantingSchemes #GardenColourTheory #GardenDesignTips #ColourInTheGarden #GardenInspiration #PlantWithPurpose #GardenMood #LandscapeDesign #BloomsAndBalance #ExpressYourselfOutdoors⁠ ⁠ 📸 Pic 1: Sedate & pastel planting schemes in Ode, garden designed by Brent Reid, Candeo Design, MIFGS 2025⁠ 📸 Pic 2: Autumnal & pastel planting scheme in a Border garden, MIFGS 2023⁠ 📸 Pic 3: Vibrant planting scheme, Brighton, 2016⁠ 📸 Pic 4: Planting snippet, peaceful tones of white and purple, Yarraville design, 2020⁠ 📸Pic 5: peaceful tones of white and purple⁠ 📸Pic 6: coastal tones of silver and green, Blackburn project 2016⁠ 📸Pic 7: colourful vibes of a cottage garden! 📸Pic 8: sedate tones of beige and white broken up with some cheery orange and pinks, Brighton project 2016⁠
🌿 Green isn’t just something we see — it’ 🌿 Green isn’t just something we see — it’s something we feel. Across cultures and generations, plants have shaped the way we live, celebrate, heal, and connect with the world around us.⁠ ⁠ From ancient medicinal gardens to sacred groves and lush courtyards, greenery has always been part of the human story. It’s in how we bring fresh flowers to a loved one, sip herbal tea to soothe the nerves, or tend a backyard veggie patch to feed both body and soul. Plants aren’t just decoration — they’re part of our well-being.⁠ ⁠ Science backs it up, too. Spending time around plants has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve concentration, and even speed up recovery. ⁠ ⁠ On a cultural level, gardens have long been places of gathering, reflection, ritual, and renewal.⁠ ⁠ So, the next time you’re in your garden or even just admiring a humble houseplant, take a moment to appreciate the deep roots we share with the plant world. ⁠ ⁠ Greenery grounds us, heals us, and reminds us of our place in something larger.⁠ Let’s not just grow gardens — let’s grow connections. 🌱⁠
This design snap is from my Ardeer project. The br This design snap is from my Ardeer project. The brief was for a romantic and naturalistic garden with flowers that could be picked for all the rooms in the house. How dreamy!!! 🤩💐⁠ ⁠ The private area at the rear of the garden is stunningly colourful and has a private pergola for my lovely client to use as a personal relaxing space. 🧘‍♀️⁠ ⁠ There’s plenty of storage, entertainment, and play areas for the children to explore and run around. It’s full of colour, noise, and fun!!! 👨‍👩‍👦⁠ ⁠ I love using a mixed palette of materials here, and I’m finally getting clients brave enough to try out new ideas and make their gardens unique! ⁠ ⁠ This garden will stand out on their street and have lots of seasonal interest! Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below 💚⁠
Flowers bloom boldly, yet they ask for very little Flowers bloom boldly, yet they ask for very little. They brighten gardens, tables, and hearts. Their fleeting beauty reminds us to pause, breathe, and appreciate what’s right in front of us. ⁠ ⁠ Like flowers, women often hold the world together, nurturing, growing, and showing up even in the most challenging conditions.⁠ ⁠ What’s truly powerful is how flowers, like women, are never just one thing. Some are soft and delicate, others wild, bright, and untamed. Some thrive in the spotlight, others in quiet corners. Some bloom early, some take their time—but all bring richness, colour, and life to the spaces they touch. 🌼⁠ ⁠ Both women and flowers deserve to be celebrated in the garden and life, not just for their beauty, but for their resilience, diversity, and ability to bring joy simply by being. Here’s to the beauty that blooms, nurtures, inspires and endures. 💐✨⁠ ⁠ Tag a woman who reminds you of a flower—and tell her how much she brightens your world. 💚👇⁠
Winter might seem like a quiet time in the garden. Winter might seem like a quiet time in the garden... but behind the scenes, there’s plenty you can do to give your outdoor space a little TLC ❄️🌿⁠ ⁠ Think of it as the garden’s self-care season – time to rest, recharge, and prep for a strong comeback in spring 💪⁠ Here are a few easy winter garden care tips:⁠ ⁠ 🌱 Mulch like a pro – A thick layer of Mulch protects roots from frost, keeps moisture in and keeps weeds out. It’s a cosy blanket for your plants!⁠ ⁠ ✂️ Prune and tidy – Winter is the perfect time to prune many deciduous trees and shrubs. Just check what looks like a winter haircut— and what doesn’t!⁠ ⁠ 🌼 Plan and plant – Got big garden dreams? Winter is the time to plan them out. And don’t forget, some stars like hellebores and camellias bloom through the chill!⁠ ⁠ Even on the coldest days, the garden still has magic—sometimes it’s quieter. What’s your go-to winter garden ritual? Let me know below! 👇⁠ ⁠ To read more about winter garden care, head to my blog:⁠ https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/winter-garden-care/⁠ ⁠ 📸Burwood East project, completed 2019
🎨✨ Murals: More Than Just Art on a Wall! ✨🎨⁠ ⁠ Ever walked past a vibrant, larger-than-life mural and felt an instant mood boost? That’s the magic of colour and design at work! 🌈💫⁠ ⁠ Murals aren’t just eye-catching — they tell stories, evoke emotions, and transform spaces in ways that plain walls never could. ⁠ ⁠ A bold, geometric design can energise a space, while soft pastels create a calm atmosphere. Even a splash of unexpected colour can shift your mood, spark creativity, and make a space feel alive!⁠ ⁠ In gardens, murals can add depth, personality, and a touch of the unexpected. Imagine a botanical masterpiece behind your outdoor seating or a dreamy sky scene extending your space beyond its borders. The possibilities are endless! 🌿🖌️⁠ ⁠ Beyond aesthetics, murals also bring communities together. A striking public artwork can turn a blank wall into a local landmark, sparking conversation and connection. ⁠Look at this one in the picture - it’s near an ice creamery in Sorrento, and it caught my eye!⁠ ⁠ Whether it’s a personal mural in your backyard or a large-scale piece in your neighbourhood, these creations have the power to inspire and unite. ❤️🎭⁠ ⁠ How do colours and murals influence your mood? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇🎨⁠ ⁠ 📸Mural, Sorrento
Totally in love with some of the concepts and desi Totally in love with some of the concepts and designs at MIFGS 2025 (Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show). ⁠ ⁠ I’ve been musing about what I like about this year’s garden show and how it resonates with my design, thoughts, and feelings about the gardens I create.⁠ I’ve narrowed it down to this, even though I took almost 1,000 pictures that day! ⁠ ⁠ I love gardens that are rich in culture and have an incredible story. I also love gardens that have something fun or unexpected and enjoy them immensely, no matter how quirky or unusual. As long as it’s achievable, the garden should be highly personalised to the person it is being created for. ⁠ ⁠ It has to be a curated space that makes my clients smile or ponder, allowing them to enjoy every moment spent in their garden.⁠ Below is a selection of gardens presented at this year’s show that represent that! ⁠ Pic 1 - How gorgeously vibrant is that fluorescent pink? I’m not one to shy away from using bright colours in designs, but I love how this was used to exemplify the cultural aspect of colour in creating a Spanish garden. ⁠ 📸Avenue of Achievable gardens⁠ ⁠ Pic 2 shows a gorgeous pop of colour and the unexpected use of the Japanese Kintsugi concept (gold repair). A pink fluorescent lighting strip around the windows is subtle but quite fun. ⁠ ⁠ I loved seeing the Venus flytrap in the planting palette! Something I’ve associated with one of the designers involved in this project. It seems to be something that I find quirky and cool! ⁠ 📸Boutique gardens⁠ ⁠ Pic 3 - The pink accents come through in this garden, reminding me of a season I love - Autumn. I love how dreamy and inviting this looks, and how it will create movement through the garden⁠ 📸Border gardens⁠ ⁠ Pic 4 - Insect hotels⁠ 📸Border gardens⁠ ⁠ Pic 5 - Fun shapes and colours⁠ 📸Welcome garden⁠ ⁠ Pic 6 - Fun use of shapes and practicality⁠ 📸Paul Pritchard, Show garden⁠ ⁠ Pic 7 - Cultural story of family, ties with Africa and memories of childhood⁠ 📸Avenue of Achievable gardens⁠ ⁠ Pic 8 - Texture, calming and practicality⁠ 📸Christian Jenkins, Show garden⁠
🌿✨ Climbing Vines: Let’s Keep Them Looking 🌿✨ Climbing Vines: Let’s Keep Them Looking Fabulous! ✨🌿⁠ ⁠ There’s nothing quite like a lush, climbing vine transforming a wall, fence, or trellis into a green paradise! But if left unchecked, they can turn from charming to chaotic. Here’s how to keep your vine thriving while growing exactly where you want it! 🌱⬆️⁠ ⁠ 🌿 Guide and Train It — Vines need a little direction! Gently weave new growth through a trellis or use soft ties to secure wayward stems. This keeps them from taking over your garden (or your neighbour’s yard!).⁠ ⁠ ✂️ Prune Regularly – A quick trim here and there keeps your vine healthy, encourages fuller growth, and prevents it from becoming a tangled mess. Plus, it keeps your flowers blooming beautifully! 🌸⁠ ⁠ 💦 Water and Feed — Vines are hungry plants! Keep the soil moist (but not soggy) and give them a nutrient boost with a balanced fertiliser for strong, vibrant growth.⁠ ⁠ With a little care, your climbing vine will stay lush, lovely, and under control, creating the dreamy garden backdrop you’ve been wishing for! ✨ What’s your favourite climbing plant? Drop it in the comments! 👇💚⁠ ⁠ 📸Mt Waverley project detail, completed 2023
Your deck might be your favourite spot to relax wi Your deck might be your favourite spot to relax with a cuppa, entertain friends, or soak up the sunshine surrounded by pots of lush greenery—but when was the last time you gave it a proper safety check? 👀⁠ ⁠ A well-designed deck can be a valid extension of your home—a space for creating memories, hosting BBQs, and enjoying quiet Sunday mornings. But even the best-built decks need a little TLC to stay safe, especially after braving the elements year after year.⁠ ⁠ May is International Deck Safety Month, so it’s the perfect time to show your deck a bit of attention. Whether it’s a cosy ground-level setup or a grand two-storey structure with stairs and railings, every deck benefits from a seasonal check-up, and your family, especially the little ones running barefoot, will thank you for it. 🏡💚⁠ ⁠ Here are a few key things to check this month:⁠ ⁠ 🔩 Loose Nails, Screws or Fasteners – These might seem small but can become significant safety risks. Tighten anything wobbly or sticking out.⁠ ⁠ 🪚 Rotting or Splintered Wood – Moisture, time, and weather can break down even quality timber. Check for soft spots or cracked boards and replace them immediately.⁠ ⁠ 🧱 Stability of Railings and Stairs—Give the railings a good shake. Are they solid and secure? The stairs should feel stable and not move underfoot.⁠ ⁠ 🌧️ Water Damage & Drainage—Look for signs of mould, mildew, or pooling water. Good drainage is key to keeping your deck materials strong and safe.⁠ ⁠ 🧼 Slippery Surfaces—Moss, algae, and general grime build-up can make decks slippery and dangerous. A good clean might be all they need!⁠ ⁠ 🔍 Check for Movement—If your deck feels shifting or bouncy underfoot, it might be time for a professional inspection.⁠ ⁠ 💡 Bonus tip: If your deck is 15 years old or older, it’s a good idea to assess it professionally, even if it looks fine. Wind, rain, UV exposure and general wear all take their toll.⁠ ⁠ For more tips, check out our blog, Eight Ways to Look After Your Timber Decking: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/eight-ways-to-look-after-your-timber-decking/⁠ ⁠
There’s something incredibly poetic about this s There’s something incredibly poetic about this season—the crisp air, the golden light, and the way the leaves put on their most dramatic performance before drifting to the ground. There’s no rush, no panic. This is a gentle reminder that change can be stunning, graceful, or necessary.⁠ ⁠ “Autumn, the year’s last loveliest smile” is more than just a pretty quote—it’s a way of thinking. It whispers, “Slow down. Soak it in.” There’s beauty in letting go, winding down, and making space for rest and reflection.⁠ ⁠ Gardens feel it too. Summer’s showstoppers might be fading, but autumn brings its quiet magic—rusty reds, deep burgundies, warm golds. It’s a time when structure, texture, and mood shine—the garden shifts from centre stage to a softer, more soulful beauty.⁠ ⁠ ✨ Planting Tip: Now’s the perfect time to plant spring bulbs or introduce cold-hardy veggies and leafy greens. Think garlic, broad beans, or silverbeet if you’re feeling productive.⁠ ⁠ 🌿 Garden Design Tip: Autumn light is golden and low—take advantage of it. Frame your garden beds or paths to catch the sunset rays, and don’t forget to consider foliage texture and contrast. Grasses and deciduous shrubs can steal the show this time of year.⁠ ⁠ 🍷 Lifestyle Tip: Make your outdoor space work for the season. Add a fire pit, pull out the woolly throws, pour a mulled wine, and entertain alfresco. Autumn is for slow moments, hearty meals, and good conversation under starry skies.⁠ ⁠ So if you love a fresh start, but also romanticise every fallen leaf and cup of tea in hand… autumn is your season. It’s nature’s way of showing us that there’s joy in transition—and that endings can be just as lovely as beginnings. 🍁🧡⁠ ⁠ Tell me—what’s your favourite autumn ritual in your garden?⁠
🌿Meet Sedum ‘Blue Feathers’ – The Perfect 🌿Meet Sedum ‘Blue Feathers’ – The Perfect Low-Maintenance Beauty!💙⁠ ⁠ Looking for a plant that’s tough, stunning, and incredibly easy to care for? Sedum reflexum’ Blue Spruce’ is a standout! ⁠ ⁠ With its fabulous blue-green, needle-like foliage (resembling a miniature spruce tree 🌲) and bright yellow summer blooms that attract pollinators, this little gem brings year-round texture and colour to any garden. ⁠Plus, Autumn’s foliage takes on a gorgeous golden hue for an extra seasonal surprise! 🍂 ✨ ⁠ ⁠ Why You’ll Love It:⁠ ⁠ ✔️ Super low maintenance – Thrives on neglect! Once established, it hardly needs water. 💧⁠ ✔️ Perfect for tough spots – Dry soil? Poor conditions? No problem! ‘Blue Spruce’ loves it. 🌱⁠ ✔️ Versatile & hardy – Use it as ground cover, in rock gardens, as edging, or even in containers. 🌿🪴⁠ ✔️ Pollinator-friendly – Bees and butterflies can’t resist those starry yellow flowers! 🐝🦋⁠ ⁠ Whether filling in gaps, adding texture to a succulent garden, or looking for a plant that thrives with minimal fuss, the ‘Blue feathers’ stonecrop is a must-have. Do you have a spot in your garden that could use this tough little beauty? Let me know below! 👇💚⁠
Do you know your garden is quietly messing with yo Do you know your garden is quietly messing with your mind ... in the best possible way? 🧠🌸🌿⁠ ⁠ The colours and scents you choose for your outdoor space aren’t just pretty, they’re powerful. ⁠ ⁠ Want to feel calm? Blues and lavenders are your best mates. Need a pick-me-up? Zingy yellows and oranges bring a lot of good energy. And scent? Don’t even get us started. A whiff of jasmine or rosemary can transport you to a holiday, a childhood memory, or melt the stress away after a long day.⁠ ⁠ Whether you want your space to energise, soothe, spark creativity, or invite connection, tuning into the psychology of colour and scent helps you design with feeling, not just flair.⁠ ⁠ So next time you pick plants, don’t just think about how they look — think about how you want to feel.⁠ ⁠ Want to read more about the surprising power of colour and scent in garden design? Head on over to our website and read my new blog:⁠ ⁠ https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-colour-and-scent-transform-your-garden-design/⁠ ⁠ What garden scent or colour instantly lifts your mood? Let me know in the comments!⁠ 💚
🌿✨ Garden Gatherings: Good for the Soul! ✨🌿⁠ ⁠ I love entertaining in my garden, and so do many of my clients. There’s something truly special about gathering with friends and family in your garden—the fresh air, the laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the simple joy of sharing good food under the open sky. 🌃 🥂⁠ ⁠ Your garden isn’t just a patch of greenery; it’s an extension of your home and heart. It’s where stories are told, memories are made, and the everyday hustle slows down just enough for you to connect genuinely. ⁠ ⁠ Whether it’s a casual weekend BBQ, a long lunch under the trees, or an impromptu evening under fairy lights, spending time outdoors with loved ones nourishes the soul in ways nothing else can. 💚⁠ ⁠ ✨ Why outdoor entertaining is so good for you:⁠ ⁠ 🌿 Nature’s therapy – Being surrounded by greenery and fresh air reduces stress and boosts happiness.⁠ ⁠ 🔥 Food tastes better outside – There’s a reason why BBQs, woodfired pizzas, and garden-fresh salads feel extra special in the great outdoors!⁠ ⁠ 💬 Real conversations happen – You can enjoy the moment without screens and distractions.⁠ ⁠ So set the table, fire up the grill, and invite your favourite people over —because life’s best moments happen when we’re together. 🌺✨⁠ ⁠ Tag someone you’d love to have a garden get-together with! 👇🍽️⁠ ⁠ 📸Berwick project, rear courtyard, completed 2023
🌸 Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mu 🌸 Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mums, mother figures, and nurturing souls.⁠ 💐⁠ ⁠ Like a well-loved garden, motherhood comprises countless small acts—planting seeds of kindness, nurturing growth through every season, and weathering the storms with grace. ⁠ ⁠ Some days are full bloom—radiant, joyful, and fragrant with love. Others are quieter, like resting soil, full of invisible strength and care. But through it all, the consistency, the tending, and the love that help everything flourish.⁠ ⁠ To the women who shape lives with patience, grow beauty every day, and remind us that some of the strongest roots are the ones we never see, we honour you today. 💚⁠ ⁠ Wishing you a day filled with love, a little sunshine, and hopefully, something that makes your heart bloom.⁠
This is Lara and Terence’s lovely home in Camber This is Lara and Terence’s lovely home in Camberwell. I worked on this project back in 2018. I loved the hidden veggie patch and mini fruit orchard at this property, which was also quite different from many properties in the area.⁠ ⁠ “Parveen and team looked after our landscaping from start to finish. They did a fantastic job and lots of aftercare! We absolutely love the outcome of the planting design and have received numerous compliments from neighbours.”⁠ ⁠ Terence J⁠ ⁠ If you love what you see in the video, head on over to our website and see what else the project involves:⁠ ⁠ https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/camberwell/
It’s easy to get caught up in what you think you It’s easy to get caught up in what you think your space should look like — until you realise it doesn’t feel like you.⁠ That’s because you can’t fight your style. The more you try to fit into someone else’s “perfect” version, the more out of place your home or garden can feel.⁠ ⁠ The magic happens when you embrace what you genuinely love — whether that’s a riot of colour, clean minimalism, wild cottage charm, or something unique.⁠ ⁠ Once you let your style lead the way (instead of second-guessing it), everything starts falling into place. Designing, decorating, and making decisions get easier because you’re no longer trying to be someone else.⁠ ⁠ Let’s stop second-guessing and start designing for joy, comfort, and everything that makes you feel at home. After all, your garden isn’t just for show — it’s for living. 💚⁠ ⁠ 🌿 What’s one thing in your garden that you love? Tell us below!⁠
Ever wondered how some lawns look perfectly green, Ever wondered how some lawns look perfectly green, soft, and effortlessly manicured all year round? The secret isn’t magic — consistent care and a few pro tips make all the difference! Here are three must-know lawn care tricks to keep your grass looking like a golf course:⁠ ⁠ 💧 1. Water Smart, Not More⁠: More water doesn’t always mean greener grass! Deep, infrequent watering encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant ⁠ ⁠ Water in the early morning helps prevent evaporation and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. A good soak two to three times a week is better than a daily light sprinkle!⁠ ⁠ ✂️ 2. Mow the Right Way⁠: Cutting your grass too short might seem like a time-saver, but it can stress your lawn and invite weeds to take over. Instead, stick to the one-third rule—never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time. ⁠ ⁠ This keeps it thick, healthy, and vibrant! And don’t forget to keep those mower blades sharp for a clean cut.⁠ ⁠ 🌿 3. Feed Your Lawn Like a Pro⁠: Like us, lawns need food! A balanced fertiliser routine provides essential nutrients to keep grass strong and lush. Feed your lawn seasonally — high nitrogen in spring for growth, a balanced mix in summer for resilience, and a slow-release formula in autumn to prepare for winter.⁠ ⁠ With the proper care, your lawn can be the envy of the neighbourhood. Are you ready to transform your patch of green into a perfectly manicured masterpiece? ⁠ ⁠Drop a 🌿 in the comments if you would love more maintenance tips 💚⁠ ⁠ 📸Mt Waverley project front garden, completed 2023
Follow on Instagram
Archives
  • June 2025
  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • January 2025
  • November 2024
  • October 2024
  • September 2024
  • July 2024
  • June 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • February 2024
  • January 2024
  • December 2023
  • November 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • April 2023
  • March 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
Categories
  • Animals
  • Arbour
  • Australian Natives
  • Balcony Gardens
  • Biophilia
  • Birds
  • Blog
  • Budgeting
  • Children
  • Colour
  • Colour and Scent
  • Construction
  • Decking
  • Design
  • Edibles
  • Feng Shui
  • Flower and Garden Shows
  • Flowers
  • Garden
  • Garden and Landscaping Trends
  • Gardening For Beginners
  • Gardens for Life
  • Health
  • Home
  • Home office
  • Irrigation
  • Landscape Design
  • Landscaping
  • Lawn
  • Maintenance
  • Materials
  • Nature
  • Outdoor Entertaining
  • Paving
  • Plant collectors
  • Plants
  • Productive gardening
  • Productive gardens
  • Propagation
  • Pruning
  • Scented gardens
  • Seasonal tips
  • Site surveys
  • Soil pH
  • Staging for sale
  • Structures
  • Sustainable Gardening
  • Uncategorized
  • Water Features
  • Weather
  • Wildlife

Related News

Other posts that you should not miss
Close up of metal artwork used in tropical garden design in Vermont South

How to Use Artistic Expression in Garden Design

June 1, 2025
-
Posted by Parveen
At its heart, garden design rooted in artistic expression isn't just about how "good" something looks—it's about how it feels. A garden…
Read More →
Colour, Colour and Scent, Design, Flowers, Garden, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Outdoor Entertaining, Paving, Plants, Water Features
10 MIN READ
Helleborus flower range of colours from white to yellows, pinks, burgundy and black

How Colour and Scent Transform Your Garden Design

May 1, 2025
-
Posted by Parveen
Colour and scent are two of the most powerful elements in any garden, turning outdoor spaces into more than just a place…
Read More →
Australian Natives, Colour, Colour and Scent, Edibles, Flowers, Garden, Garden and Landscaping Trends, Health, Plants, Scented gardens
7 MIN READ
Maximalism in Garden Design

Maximalism in Garden Landscape Design

April 1, 2025
-
Posted by Parveen
Maximalism is a bold and lively alternative in a world that often champions minimalism's clean lines and simplicity. It celebrates abundance, layers…
Read More →
Australian Natives, Budgeting, Colour, Flowers, Garden, Garden and Landscaping Trends, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants, Scented gardens
7 MIN READ

Follow us on social media

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Houzz

ACN: 617 529 914

contact +614 0332 9128

contact@inspiringlandscapes.com.au

 
Creating your dream garden - steps before hiring a "landscaper" - Inspiring Landscape Solutions