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Plan your garden space with purpose

How Far In Advance Should I Hire A Garden Designer?

November 22, 2022
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Budgeting, Construction, Gardens for Life, Home, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants
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No comments
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Posted by Parveen

I get asked this question a lot, and my two standard responses are as soon as possible (provided that you are mentally ready to commit to the process) and with the expectation that you give the process enough thought/time to create a space that truly suits your needs.

However, many of us think about our gardens sometimes as an afterthought or as a reaction to specific triggers like warmer weather or important occasions (spring, summer and Xmas) to complete the construction that same season. Understandably, that is the time of year when we’re spending more time in our gardens with friends and family or just taking a break from work!

You may find it challenging to hire a good garden designer at the “last minute.” It’s like shopping on Christmas Eve to buy ham or turkey for Christmas lunch. It’s a lost cause!

Who Would You Like To Work With?

Garden Maintenance of hedge

Spend the time, well in advance, when you’re looking to get the garden constructed (which is at least 6 months to a year before) to research the designer you want to work with, understand their philosophy and assess what they offer will work for you. 

If they’re a popular and well-known designer, you need to contact them as soon as you consider having a new garden to find out their availability.

Keep local designers in mind. Not only is it a great way to support local businesses, but they will have less time to travel, which should help keep the costs lower.

Starting The Design Process

The best times for starting the process, from experience and with the view that Autumn and Spring are the best times for planting, are usually around:

  • Summer or autumn at the latest, with a view of construction from Spring that same year.
  • Autumn/Spring the year before or summer the following year at the latest, with a view of construction from Autumn the following year.
Night view of Wantirna garden design 6 years on

You will need to allow for some buffer time as the more complex the design, number of areas to design for etc. will impact on how long the design process actually takes.

You also need to factor in:

  • Landscape contractor availability – like designers, the good ones are usually booked up anywhere from 3-6 months in advance!
  • Extra time for bad weather and seasonal planting as some plants are not available all year round and you may have to finish up your garden construction later than expected.

An example of this is if you want to have bulbs in your garden. Unfortunately, these can’t be planted during summer, so you would have to have your designer out earlier in the year or go without them.

Burwood Front Elevation Landscape Plan

Don't Rush The Process

You will need to consider how long it will take to design your garden and whether or not you’ll be having any seasonal plants. However, don’t rush the process; there’s more to planning a garden than people realise.  You need the same dedication and thought process that you would apply to actually building a house as there is a lot to consider and detail involved.

For example, you need to understand your site dimensions, challenges, limitations and what exactly you need from your outdoors.  Understanding impacts on neighbours, what rules and regulations are applicable are also an important part of this process even before the drawing part of this exercise starts!

Brief Your Designer

First, make sure you brief your designer with any specific ideas you already have. Then, write down any must-have garden features you have in mind. Having it in writing will ensure understanding between yourself and the designer on what you have in mind. 

Be as specific as you can be on what you would like. For example, you might want a water feature in a particular place in your garden, or you may have some existing plants that you wish to keep. You could even draw up a rough sketch if you like, as that will give the garden designer a visual of what you are thinking.

The designer will be able to let you know if something that you have in mind might work better and provide you with other options. Then, once you’ve had a detailed discussion with them, they’ll be able to give you an estimated schedule on how long it might take.

Be as open and candid with the designer – it’s really important that they understand what your design challenges are and more importantly they get to know you.  The best designs stem from this understanding and collaborative process.

Dichondra repens and crazy paving in Murrumbeena landscape design
Fire pit area in Murrumbeena landscape design

Don't Forget Your Budget

There are two aspects to this. The budget for the design process and the budget for the construction/implementation process.

Design budget – while you may book your designer months in advance, your budget, project complexity and manner of documentation (2D, 3D, additional ancillary drawings etc) impact the length of time for designing your outdoors. 

Make sure you understand the scope and cost before getting started and the input you need to provide, as the client. It is a collaborative process so your input is absolutely required. 

Implementation/Construction budget – This aspect covers everything after the design phase including staging.  

Ask your garden designer to go through the approximate costings with you before they start, and at the end of the project. Please keep in mind that the designer can only get to a range and not the ballpoint figure as unless they construct the design themselves, they do not have control of landscape contractor profit margins.

You should also factor in material pricing increases as there are likely to be a couple of increases throughout a financial year. If you need to make amendments to what you had in mind, that can be done BEFORE the project begins as you have more control of

the outcome rather than playing it by ear and having to compromise.

When the warm weather has finished, put your thinking cap on, decide what your new-look garden will look like, and get on the phone with your garden designer.

Landscape Design Process

At Inspiring Landscape Solutions our landscape design process includes the following:

  • Pre-design phase – A consultation
  • Design phase: 
    • Detailed concept plan
    • Planting schedule
    • Other ancillary supporting plans such as elevations and 3D work
  • Design Implementation:
      • Plant sourcing
      • Sculptures, Custom metal screens, artwork or other finishings
      • Construction
  • Garden health checks – advisory support/tips for maintenance
Mount Waverley frontyard design by Parveen Dhaliwal Melbourne

You can have a look at a couple of our before and after projects here:

Blackburn Garden Design

Glen Waverley Garden Design

Here are some previous projects that you might like to have a look at for inspiration.

If you’re on a tight garden budget have a look at what our clients were able to achieve.

 

If you need further suggestions, design or plantscaping for 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.

Our passion your garden! xx

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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). ⁠
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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! ⁠
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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. ⁠
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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!
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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
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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. ⁠
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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
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Pic 3 - The pink accents come through in this garden, reminding me of a season I love - Autumn. I love how creamy and inviting this looks, and how it will create movement through the garden⁠
📸Border gardens⁠
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Pic 4 - Insect hotels⁠
📸Border gardens⁠
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Pic 5 - Fun shapes and colours⁠
📸Welcome garden⁠
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Pic 6 - Fun use of shapes and practicality⁠
📸Paul Pritchard, Show garden⁠
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Pic 7 - Cultural story of family, ties with Africa and memories of childhood⁠
📸Avenue of Achievable gardens⁠
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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! ✨🌿⁠
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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! 🌱⬆️⁠
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🌿 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!).⁠
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✂️ 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! 🌸⁠
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💦 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.⁠
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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! 👇💚⁠
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📸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? 👀⁠
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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.⁠
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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. 🏡💚⁠
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Here are a few key things to check this month:⁠
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🔩 Loose Nails, Screws or Fasteners – These might seem small but can become significant safety risks. Tighten anything wobbly or sticking out.⁠
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🪚 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.⁠
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🧱 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.⁠
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🌧️ Water Damage & Drainage—Look for signs of mould, mildew, or pooling water. Good drainage is key to keeping your deck materials strong and safe.⁠
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🧼 Slippery Surfaces—Moss, algae, and general grime build-up can make decks slippery and dangerous. A good clean might be all they need!⁠
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🔍 Check for Movement—If your deck feels shifting or bouncy underfoot, it might be time for a professional inspection.⁠
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💡 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.⁠
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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/⁠
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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.⁠
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“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.⁠
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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.⁠
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✨ 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.⁠
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🌿 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.⁠
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🍷 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.⁠
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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. 🍁🧡⁠
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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!💙⁠
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Looking for a plant that’s tough, stunning, and incredibly easy to care for? Sedum reflexum’ Blue Spruce’ is a standout! ⁠
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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! 🍂 ✨ ⁠
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Why You’ll Love It:⁠
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✔️ 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! 🐝🦋⁠
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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? 🧠🌸🌿⁠
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The colours and scents you choose for your outdoor space aren’t just pretty, they’re powerful. ⁠
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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So next time you pick plants, don’t just think about how they look — think about how you want to feel.⁠
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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:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-colour-and-scent-transform-your-garden-design/⁠
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What garden scent or colour instantly lifts your mood? Let me know in the comments!⁠ 💚
🌿✨ Garden Gatherings: Good for the Soul! ✨🌿⁠
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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. 🌃 🥂⁠
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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. ⁠
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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. 💚⁠
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✨ Why outdoor entertaining is so good for you:⁠
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🌿 Nature’s therapy – Being surrounded by greenery and fresh air reduces stress and boosts happiness.⁠
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🔥 Food tastes better outside – There’s a reason why BBQs, woodfired pizzas, and garden-fresh salads feel extra special in the great outdoors!⁠
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💬 Real conversations happen – You can enjoy the moment without screens and distractions.⁠
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So set the table, fire up the grill, and invite your favourite people over —because life’s best moments happen when we’re together. 🌺✨⁠
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Tag someone you’d love to have a garden get-together with! 👇🍽️⁠

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📸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.⁠ 💐⁠
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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. ⁠
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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.⁠
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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. 💚⁠
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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.⁠
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“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.”⁠
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Terence J⁠
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If you love what you see in the video, head on over to our website and see what else the project involves:⁠
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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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. 💚⁠
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🌿 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:⁠
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💧 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 ⁠
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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!⁠
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✂️ 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. ⁠
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This keeps it thick, healthy, and vibrant! And don’t forget to keep those mower blades sharp for a clean cut.⁠
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🌿 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.⁠
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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 💚⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project front garden, completed 2023
If you’re looking for a tree that delivers year- If you’re looking for a tree that delivers year-round beauty, look no further than Cornus Satomi, aka the Pink-Flowering Kousa Dogwood! This stunner isn’t just another pretty plant—it’s a living work of art that transforms with every season. 🍃🍂❄️🌸⁠
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💖 Spring & Summer Magic – When Spring arrives, this lovely tree bursts into blush-pink bracts (not petals!) that look like something straight out of a fairytale. These flowers last for weeks, ensuring your garden is the envy of the neighbourhood!⁠
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🍂 Autumn Elegance — As summer fades, Satomi shifts into rich tones of deep red and burgundy, adding fiery warmth to your outdoor space.⁠
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❄️ Winter Interest – Even in the colder months, its unique branching structure and textured bark create a sculptural beauty against frosty backdrops.⁠
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🍓 Bonus? Edible Fruits! – Come late summer, this tree produces cute, raspberry-like fruits that are not only a treat for birds but also able to be made into homemade jams (they may be a little astringent and unpalatable eaten straight off the tree!).⁠
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Whether you’re after seasonal interest, soft elegance, or a tree that practically takes care of itself, Cornus Satomi is a must-have! Who else loves a garden that changes with the seasons? 🌿💫⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project detail, completed 2023
🚨 Sneak Peek Alert! 🚨✨⁠ ⁠ I can’t wa 🚨 Sneak Peek Alert! 🚨✨⁠
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I can’t wait to share this one with you! Here’s a first look at one of my favourite designs in the works for a wonderful family in Glen Iris. 🌿💦⁠
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This backyard is about a big impact in a small space—a compact pool area transformed into a private oasis packed with clever design features to enjoy all year round! ☀️🏊‍♂️ Cosy, stylish, and ultra-functional—what more could you want? 😍⁠
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Now, here’s the catch … Project construction ETA: 2027! Yep, I’ll be waiting a while to see this come to life, but trust me — it’ll be worth the wait! 🤩⁠
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What do you think? Would you love a dreamy backyard escape like this? Let me know in the comments! 👇🌿✨⁠

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There’s nothing better than a gorgeous timber de There’s nothing better than a gorgeous timber deck — it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun, enjoy a cup of coffee, or host a summer BBQ. But let’s be honest: Decks take a bit of TLC to keep them looking their best.⁠
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That’s why I wrote my latest blog: Eight Ways to Look After Your Timber Decking! 🌿🛠️ ⁠
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Whether you’re dealing with fading or cracks or want to keep your deck in shape for years, I’ve got you covered.⁠
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In this post, you’ll learn:⁠
✅ The easiest way to keep your deck clean (without too much elbow grease!)⁠
✅ How to protect it from harsh weather and prevent damage 🌧️☀️⁠
✅ The best oils and sealants to keep it looking fresh and polished⁠
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Timber decking is an investment, and with the right care, it can last years —while staying just as stunning as the day it was installed. Want to know how? Check out the full blog here:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/eight-ways-to-look-after-your-timber-decking/⁠
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Do you have any tried-and-true deck maintenance hacks? If so, share them—I’d love to hear them!⁠
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📸Pic 1 Marybyrnong project, completed 2013⁠
📸Pic 2 Glen Waverley project, completed 2016⁠
📸Pic 3 Ashburton project, completed 2012⁠
📸Pic 4 Ashburton project, completed 2012⁠
📸Pic 5 Vermont South C project, completed 2022⁠
📸Pic 6 Highett project, completed 2023⁠
📸Pic 7 Vermont South A project, completed 2018⁠
📸Pic 8 Marybyrnong project, completed 2013⁠
Red poppies.❣️⁠ ⁠ Every year on Anzac Day, Red poppies.❣️⁠
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Every year on Anzac Day, we see red poppies worn with pride, laid in tribute, and woven into ceremonies across Australia and New Zealand. But have you ever considered why this delicate flower holds so much meaning?⁠
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After WWI, the poppy became a symbol of remembrance, inspired by the famous poem “In Flanders Fields,” in which these resilient flowers bloomed across battle-scarred landscapes. ⁠
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Despite the devastation, poppies flourished — a powerful reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and the lives lost in war.⁠
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On April 25th, when we pause to honour the ANZACs and all who have served, the poppy is more than just a flower — it’s a tribute to courage, a reflection on history, and a sign of gratitude. ⁠
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Whether pinned to a lapel or placed at a memorial, a poppy is a simple yet profound way to say, “We will remember them.” ⁠
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Did you be wearing a poppy this Anzac Day? Share your thoughts below.⁠ 💖⁠
Whether in gardening, home design, or personal sty Whether in gardening, home design, or personal style, developing your unique aesthetic takes time, experimentation, and a little courage! It’s not about following trends but figuring out what truly resonates with you. 🌸🎨⁠
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Maybe you love a wild, overgrown garden filled with vibrant colours and textures, or perhaps a minimalist, structured space with sleek lines brings you the most joy. The beauty of discovering your style is that it evolves, shaped by inspiration, experiences, and a willingness to explore new ideas.⁠
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And the best part? There’s no right or wrong! Your space—whether a garden, home, or creative project—should reflect you, not just what’s popular. So don’t be afraid to mix things up, trust your instincts, and embrace what makes you happy.⁠
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What’s one element that defines your style? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇✨⁠
An iguana sculpture isn’t just a quirky garden f An iguana sculpture isn’t just a quirky garden feature—it carries deep cultural meaning! Found in Mesoamerican, Caribbean, and South American traditions, iguanas symbolise patience, adaptability, and resilience—qualities defining a thriving garden.🦎⁠
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🏡 Why Add an Iguana Sculpture to Your Garden?⁠
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🦎 Adds Personality & Character – A fun, eye-catching focal point.⁠
🦎 Blends with Nature – Place it near rocks or tropical plants for a natural touch.⁠
🦎 Symbolic Meaning – A reminder of strength, resilience, and connection to nature.⁠
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A garden is more than just plants—it tells a story. Whether you love iguanas for their symbolism or think they look cool, an iguana sculpture will surely be a conversation starter! ⁠
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Would you add one to your garden? Let me know in the comments! 👇🦎✨⁠
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📸Berwick Project detail, front garden
🌹✨ Red Carpet Roses – A Groundcover Showsto 🌹✨ Red Carpet Roses – A Groundcover Showstopper! ✨🌿⁠
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This stunning groundcover was the scene-stealer in my recently completed project, easily spreading lush, vibrant blooms across the garden. ❤️⁠
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So, why the decision to pick this plant rather than other possible groundcovers to complete the planting palette for this project?⁠
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🌹Firstly and foremost, the client’s request was to build some roses as she loves them. She was particular about which variety or colour. I picked red as it contrasts well with the house and other plants within the design. I wanted a colour that would ‘pop’ but also tie through to other design elements!🌿⁠
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🌹Why a carpet rose? Well, I’m what you call a lazy gardener.  I generally stay away from roses, even though I love them, and they bring back some special memories for me. They are usually high maintenance! ⁠
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Unlike additional upright roses, carpet roses grow low and wide and are relatively disease-resistant. My loyal clients have young children and do not have the time to undertake garden maintenance! ⁠
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🌹 Pollinator Magnet – Bees 🐝and butterflies can’t resist its gorgeous blooms through spring to early autumn (if maintained well)! So, it’s perfect for a wildlife-friendly garden and if you love floriferous plants with an extended bloom period. ⁠
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Since it’s Easter Sunday, let’s discuss another cultural example of why red is significant!⁠ There is a wonderful Orthodox Easter tradition — red-dyed eggs! 🥚⁠
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Why red? This bold, vibrant colour symbolises life and victory, while the egg represents Jesus Christ’s resurrection—a powerful reminder of renewal and hope. ⁠
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Traditionally, these eggs are dyed on Holy Thursday for the Easter Sunday feast. Then, they are shared, cracked, and enjoyed with loved ones. This simple yet meaningful tradition has stood the test of time!⁠
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Does the colour red carry a special meaning or cultural significance for you? I would love to know!⁠
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📸 Mount Waverley project detail 2023⁠
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Murals have a way of moving us. ⁠ ⁠ Whether sp Murals have a way of moving us. ⁠
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Whether splashed across a city wall or in a quiet garden nook, they tell stories, evoke emotions, and transform ordinary spaces into something extraordinary. They can inspire joy and calm or even spark memories of places we’ve been and dreams we’ve yet to chase. 💭💚⁠
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So, why not bring that magic into your own space? Murals aren’t just for urban landscapes—they can be incredible additions to your garden or home, adding personality, depth, and creativity in a way few other design elements can.⁠
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🏡 Garden Murals: Imagine a hand-painted masterpiece on a bare fence, a stunning floral design on an old shed, or even a bold abstract piece that adds colour to your outdoor space. Murals in the garden create a focal point, extend the feeling of greenery, and add an artistic touch that makes the space uniquely yours.⁠
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🌿 Indoor Impact: Murals can make a room feel expansive and full of life inside the home. Whether it’s a soft watercolour landscape in a bedroom for a soothing retreat, a striking geometric design in the living room, or a dreamy sky-inspired ceiling, murals turn walls into expressions of self.⁠
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The best part? There are no rules! Whether you go for a professional artist’s touch, a DIY weekend project, or even mural-style wallpaper, these artistic statements breathe energy into our spaces. 🎨🌿⁠
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Would you add a mural to your home or garden? What kind of design speaks to you? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇💬 ⁠
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📸Mural, Sorrento
Isn’t this a stunning backdrop? The stunning vin Isn’t this a stunning backdrop? The stunning vine grows in a particular direction, and a black wall behind it makes it stand out even more. What’s essential is the vine’s maintenance.⁠
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Growing a vine in a particular pattern takes a little guidance, but it can be easy to maintain with the right approach! Here are three simple tips to keep your vine growing just the way you want:⁠
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🌿 1. Train Early & Guide Growth – When your vine is young, gently tie the stems to a trellis, wire, or frame using soft garden ties. This helps direct its growth in the desired pattern before it becomes too woody or stubborn to move.⁠
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✂️ 2. Regular Pruning for Shape & Control – Trim back any stray or unruly growth to keep the vine following your intended pattern. Focus on removing tangled, excess, or overly long stems to encourage strong, structured growth in the right direction.⁠
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💧 3. Encourage Even Growth—Rotate or reposition stems as needed and ensure your vine gets even sunlight and air circulation. Sometimes, vines can grow too heavily in one area, so gently redirect growth to maintain a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.⁠
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With patience and care, your vine will flourish beautifully in the shape you envision! 🌿✨ Have you tried training a vine in your garden? Share your experience below! 👇⁠
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