All the posts published

Design Workshop: How to Analyse Your Outdoor Site

March 8, 2021
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Uncategorized
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Posted by Parveen
Getting to know your site is the first step to creating a wonderful garden. Follow this 10-point checklist to get it right One of the first things landscape designers do when they start working on a garden plan is to make a site survey. This assesses a range of factors including soil type, wind exposure, location of sewer pipes, existing plants and changes of level. That information is put together…
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Edible garden design with a mini fruit orchard and vege patch in the backyard of a Camberwell property in Melbourne

Hidden gems – do you have to have a proper vege patch?

February 8, 2021
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Uncategorized
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Posted by Parveen

Modern cottage gardens in Melbourne

January 8, 2021
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Blog
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Posted by Parveen
Coming soon!
Salvia used in Vermont South landscape design

Gardening with passion! The story behind Sophie and Daniel’s garden

December 8, 2020
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Landscape Design, Maintenance, Plants, Structures, Water Features
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Posted by Parveen
Given that spring is around the corner, I thought of writing up on this topic as a value add so that you’re able to refer to this for some ideas on how to approach growing your own herbs!  Soon it’ll be time to sow your herb seeds to grow into young saplings you can plant out when the frost risk is minimal and the ground warms up! Have a read…
Read More →
White flowers in Hawthorn East garden design

Gardens for life – the story of Cate’s garden

November 3, 2020
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Construction, Gardens for Life, Home office, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
Propagating succulents Succulents are one of the easiest of plants to propagate!  Depending on the species of succulent, they can either be grown from seeds; you’re able to create mini me’s from their leaves/stems; or set of wee cute little baby versions of them themselves and which are aptly called pups! From leaf Pick one of their leaves, leave the wounded end to dry (called callousing) for about a day…
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White iceberg rose in Blackburn landscape design

Clivias

October 20, 2020
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Biophilia, Home office, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Biophilia xxx The core areas of biophilia in garden design The belief that people will spend more on spaces or views that connect with nature.  This has been the case for landscape design where people are realising the benefits of that connection and are therefore more interested in doing up their homes to achieve that goal. An example landscape design wise is an existent tree with a historical connection with…
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View of front entry stepper path from the street in Burwood landscape design by Parveen Dhaliwa

Creating a family garden with amazing aesthetic – Gurnik and Sarah

October 6, 2020
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Budgeting, Construction, Maintenance, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
Key players and timing Recognition of the need for designer involvement right client -designer team talking early to various parties Timing - didn't leave to the last minute and wasn't too early either as construction changes The construction team Although I personally have not tried this way of propagating, you’re able to buy some quality seeds from reputable online nurseries in Australia due to quarantine restrictions. The design Pick one…
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Compost for Natives

September 8, 2020
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Uncategorized
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Posted by Parveen
Front garden beds of a new build in Camberwell lit up at night

When’s best to start your garden design?

August 4, 2020
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Landscape Design, Landscaping, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Planning is everything I know that the outdoor design bug doesn’t usually hit most people until the first lovely spring day. I advise anyone that contacts me that they will have a better result if the process starts way earlier than that. With more people now working from home, I see that people have now taken the time to think about when they should start their garden design. When's best…
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Urban food garden in productive part of Bundoora landscape design

Vegetable patches in Spring

August 1, 2020
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Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants, Productive gardening, Productive gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Spring is just around the corner! Have you ever considered a vegetable patch in your garden? We love creating gardens for families who appreciate the importance and value of growing your own food!⁠⠀ Here are some practical tips on considering vegetable patches for your design:⁠⠀ 🥕Choosing the location and aspect ⁠⠀ 🥕Materials to be used in the garden bed, eg softwood v hardwood, the chemicals in wood treatment/leeching and considering…
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View of front entry stepper path from the street in Burwood landscape design by Parveen Dhaliwa

Achieving amazing on a tight garden design budget

July 7, 2020
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Budgeting, Construction, Maintenance, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
Setting the scene Last year, I was approached by the family who wanted to create a beautiful garden surrounding their newly built home that they were looking at selling. It was an unusual project for me to take on.  As you well know, my gardens are all about the creating spaces that are custom for the family they live in.  And which they feel connected to on some level. So…
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Kinetic sculpture in landscape design in Glen Waverley in Houzz

Getting better landscaping quotes

July 5, 2020
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Budgeting, Construction, Landscape Design, Landscaping
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Posted by Parveen
Getting a landscaping quote When I first commenced as a designer, it was put to me by a client that I should offer an advisory value-add service by staying on as an independent consultant.  My role is to guide them through the rest of the build process, given that I helped create the vision of their garden.  They needed help in getting and interpreting the landscaping quotes that they were…
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Backyard grassed area in Burwood landscape design by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Winter Garden Care

June 10, 2020
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Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants, Productive gardening, Productive gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Winter is the best time for tidying up your garden, pruning the plants, and preparing for spring.  If you can get over the mental block of how cold it is outside, you’ll reap the rewards in the couple of month’s time and also get some good exercise and keep warm to boot! So here are some tips for your winter garden care! Your winter garden to-do’s Declutter Honestly, winter’s the…
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Red king protea in Glen Waverley landscape design

The lovely Proteas

June 2, 2020
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Landscape Design, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
One of my absolute favourite family of plants to use in my designs and one I absolutely look forward to in my own garden! Such a great plant for Australian climates too! ⠀⁠ It’s often assumed that proteas are Australian natives, but they in originate from South Africa. However, they are closely related to some of our showiest plants, such as banksias, grevilleas and waratahs. (Which is why i probably…
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Close up of purple shrub in Burwood landscape design by Parveen Dhaliwal

Choosing plants for your garden

May 3, 2020
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Biophilia, Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Creating a Planting Plan So you’ve landed upon a theme for your dream garden and it’s got you so excited that you’ve already decided on the hard materials, accessories, and layout for this oasis. The next step is - many would say - the most fun part. Choosing your plants! But how do you work out what plants to put in and where they should go? You’ve come to the…
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Closeup of lime espalier in Bundoora landscape design

Vegetable patches & fruit orchards in Autumn

April 7, 2020
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Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants, Productive gardening, Productive gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Thought I'd write up on several discussions I've had the past couple of weeks from friends, family and clients about trying to get something edible planted in their garden. Most have said that they have no idea where to begin and some are curious about what else they can plant at this time of year! Well, happy to share some thoughts and tips to keep the spirit of giving going…
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Dramatic lighting effect in Hawthorn East front garden design

Before & After – Hawthorn Garden Design

April 5, 2020
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Construction, Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
The brief When Cate contacted me, she wanted a garden that would suit her lifestyle and lift her space. Her impeccable taste in her newly-renovated townhouse and incredible interior detail helped shape the outdoor design. Cate wanted a garden that would flow with the exterior and could be enjoyed both during the day and at night. It had to feel modern and create an urban oasis of lush plant life…
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Corten wall lightbox used in Glen Waverley garden design

Before & After – Glen Waverley Garden Design

April 5, 2020
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Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
The brief When Sarah and her husband contacted me, they wanted a garden design that would suit their family lifestyle and wow their neighbours. Their impeccable taste in their new build and incredible interior detail helped shape the outdoor design. Sarah’s family wanted a garden that would flow with the exterior and could be enjoyed both during the day and at night. It had to feel modern and family friendly…
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Cottage garden planting in Blackburn front garden design

Before & After – Blackburn Garden Design

April 4, 2020
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Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
The brief When Paul and Valerie came to us, their garden was overgrown but filled with potential. They had 1300 square metres to enjoy in their dream home, nestled in one of the prettiest parts of Blackburn. They wanted a practical and playful garden for a young family to compliment their newly renovated modern home. The design used a mixed planting palette, including natives and perennials to provide a cottage…
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Corten wall lightbox used in Glen Waverley garden design

How to create your perfect outdoor space

April 3, 2020
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Construction, Gardens for Life, Home office, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants, Productive gardening, Scented gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Do you want to learn what it takes to create the perfect outdoor space? A space that you love to look at and spend time in? We have developed a free comprehensive eBook just for you! This 10-page eBook will take you through: how to design the garden of your dreams. practical tips and inclusions based on your lifestyle. how to create harmony and flow between your home and garden.…
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Top view of large bromeliad used in Doncaster East landscape design

Latest planting trends

March 17, 2020
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Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
Status quo So we understand the direction in which the planting trend is moving, thought that it was best to explore what's been happening to date. (But please bear in mind that this is a very generic summary though!) There was a strong urge to mimic English gardens - so the cottage garden style. Then came the movement to go native and explore the delights we have on offer here.…
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Brown pebbles for landscaping Melbourne

What is rock mulch?

March 3, 2020
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Construction, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Materials
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Posted by Parveen
What is it? What is rock mulch? I get this question a lot. It stems from the general perception that "mulch" only relates to material made from chipped wood. Rock "mulch" is basically a groundcover material made of your chosen size of screenings, pebbles or small rocks. Now you're going to ask me, what are these in turn as they all seem to mean the same thing? In fact they…
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White iceberg rose in Blackburn landscape design

Biophilic garden design

February 11, 2020
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Biophilia, Home office, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Biophilia What does Biophillia actually mean and how is it important to garden design?  It is a fancy term or does it carry more meaning? The term "biophilia" means the "love of life or living systems." It describes a psychological orientation of being attracted to all that is alive and vital. It tries to explain why humans strive to connect with nature and the world around us. For me, maybe that…
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Basic soil dispersiveness testing by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Clay soil – how to work with it?

January 21, 2020
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Landscaping, Maintenance, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
How do I know I have clay soil? It’s relatively easy to do a basic soil type test to help you understand your soil profile. It’s called the hand texturing or extrusion test. Basically, you take a fist full of your soil, wet it so that you are able to shape it into a ball.  Then you lightly “extrude” the ball using your forefinger and thumb and see whether what…
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Salvia used in Vermont South landscape design

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

December 25, 2019
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Construction, Gardens for Life, Home office, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Maintenance, Plants, Productive gardening, Scented gardens, Seasonal tips
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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…
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Red rose in Vermont South garden design by Parveen Dhaliwal

Roses

November 19, 2019
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Landscape Design, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
My association with roses goes back to my childhood.  For me, it was the distinctive perfume of the rose that my mum grew that drew us to this plant.  Even risking a cut or two from its thorns just to take as many deep breaths in of its intoxicating perfume! My mum is the real gardener in the family and who has the most green fingers.  There is nothing that…
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Closeup of jasmine used in Vermont South garden design

Jasmines – which one is right for you?

November 5, 2019
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Landscape Design, Maintenance, Plants, Scented gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Jasmines - love them to bits!  Have a look around right now and they should be at their flowering best.  I'm writing this from my deck where I've surrounded myself with the variety of my choice. Reminds me of home. Reminds me of my childhood experiences.  Can't go wrong with a scented garden! There are many species and styles of jasmine available.  The biggest difference between jasmine varieties is their…
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Productive vegetable patch in metal planters in Kew garden design

What to Plant in Spring, a Planting Guide

October 22, 2019
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Landscape Design, Productive gardens, Seasonal tips, Sustainable Gardening
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Posted by Parveen
The most important thing to do in spring for your productive garden is planting. It is a task that will pay off big dividends! So forget all those other spring tasks you've got on your plate at the moment and get planting before it's too late! I know it's hard to get organised.  I have young kids and a busy work schedule but I do love the taste of home…
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Aphids on helleborus. Landscape design Melbourne by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Aphids – a friend or a foe?

October 8, 2019
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Maintenance, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
With spring well underway, I'm sure you've come across them.  Swarms of soft bodied insects swarming around and eventually ruining your young buds. They are present in my garden too.  Used to attack my roses but much less now, having implemented some preventative measures discussed below.  However, they still attack my hellebores! Here's some insights into what aphids are and what you should consider when dealing with them. What are…
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Close up of aloes and echeveria succulents used in Vermont South landscape design

How to grow succulents

September 8, 2019
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Maintenance, Plants, Propagation
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Posted by Parveen
Propagating succulents Succulents are one of the easiest of plants to propagate!  Depending on the species of succulent, they can grown from seeds; you’re able to create mini me’s from their leaves/stems; or set off wee cute little baby versions of them themselves and which are aptly called pups! From leaf Pick one of their leaves, leave the wounded end to dry (called callousing) for about a day then put…
Read More →
Salvia used in Vermont South landscape design

Growing herbs [Part 2]

August 8, 2019
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Landscape Design, Plants, Productive gardens
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Posted by Parveen
Given that spring is around the corner, I thought of writing up on this topic as a value add so that you’re able to refer to this for some ideas on how to approach growing your own herbs!  Soon it’ll be time to sow your herb seeds to grow into young saplings you can plant out when the frost risk is minimal and the ground warms up! Have a read…
Read More →
Urban food garden in productive part of Kew landscape design

Productive garden design – an example

July 7, 2019
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Landscape Design, Productive gardens
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Posted by Parveen
What is it? What does “productive garden design” mean for me, personally? Is it a garden with a vegetable patch?  Maybe some fruit bearing trees thrown in? Having edibles secretly injected into your outdoor spaces?  Or is it something practical for the family with young kids to forage through and discover the bounty of nature? Does it need to be aesthetically pleasing? What about inviting wildlife into the garden? For…
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Nasturtiums in Vermont South landscape design

Growing herbs [Part 1]

June 8, 2019
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Landscape Design, Plants, Productive gardens
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Posted by Parveen
Given that spring is not that far off, I thought of writing up on this topic as a value add so that you’re able to refer to this for some ideas on how to approach growing your own herbs!  Soon it’ll be time to sow your herb seeds to grow into young saplings you can plant out when the frost risk is minimal and the ground warms up! Have a…
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Closeup view of the slate wall used to create the water feature in Maribyrnong courtyard garden

Water features & aquatic plants

May 8, 2019
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Landscape Design, Maintenance, Plants, Structures, Water Features
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Posted by Parveen
Water features in your garden Water features are perfect for large gardens as well as for small courtyards. With or without aquatic plants, they will transform your garden into an amazing space! Sometimes it’s a bit confusing to choose which one will be appropriate in your garden.  When choosing water features for your garden, try to consider the price, the size of your space and the design of your garden.…
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Shadows in the garden in Hawthorn garden design by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Home offices – why include plants and the how to? PART 2

April 8, 2019
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Home office, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Hello, I’ve pulled together some features that a home-office should have, in my view.  Yes it’s plant based of course, as I’m a plantaholic designer!  Anyway, there was so much to write on this topic that I have broken it down to two articles. Part 1 Why have plants in the workplace and the how to use them effectively Part 2 Maintenance considerations and the types of plants you can…
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Garden artwork. Garden rejuvenation of a Doncaster property in Melbourne by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Home offices – why include plants and the how to? PART 1

March 8, 2019
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Home office, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Hello, I’ve pulled together some features that a home-office should have, in my view.  Yes it’s plant based of course, as I’m a plantaholic designer!  Anyway, there was so much to write on this topic that I have broken it down to two articles. Happy reading! Part 1 Why have plants in the workplace and the how to use them effectively Part 2 Maintenance considerations and the types of plants…
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Beautiful elm tree showing its yellow winter leaves in Burwood landscape design

Choosing the perfect tree for your garden

February 8, 2019
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Landscape Design, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
Role of a tree A tree is a key piece in your garden framework.  Depending on the tree of choice, it will add height and beauty to your garden and determines which part of it is shaded.  Its an important investment to realise your dream garden’s full potential!  So choosing the perfect tree is key for designing your dream garden! How trees help wildlife There is a current trend in design…
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Black circular water feature in Blackburn garden design by Parveen Dhaliwal

Sound effects in the garden

January 7, 2019
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Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
What sort of sounds? What does “sounds in the garden” mean for me, personally? Is it the rustle of leaves and undergrowth as we walk path? Could it be the wind billowing softly that makes it exciting to be in the garden? What about the birds and then buzz of the bees? Other insects maybe? What about the delightful sounds of moving water as it laps around edges of a…
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Kinetic sculpture in landscape design in Glen Waverley in Houzz

Movement in the Garden

December 10, 2018
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Landscape Design, Plants
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Posted by Parveen
People are attracted to movement in the garden.   It creates an interest of all sorts.  Here are some of my tips to create it! Doncaster - water feature view Maribyrnong - water movement Blackburn Glen Waverley Water cascading into a pool, for instance, always attracts attention from most people, especially young children!  If created to provide a subtle sound effect, it will not only add a visual wow factor to…
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Clivia flowers in Hawthorn East landscape design

Special edition – My top gardening tips for summer

November 3, 2018
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Irrigation, Maintenance, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Thought I'd quickly share some of my gardening tips for getting your garden ready this summer.  Every keen gardener I know is worried about the forecasts for this summer - it's predicted to be hot and dry so best to get your preparation underway to tackle the heat and ensure your garden survives the onslaught!! Irrigation A key gardening tip is to ensure that your irrigation system, if you have…
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Close up of bluestone paving and oversized pebbles in Burwood landscape design by Parveen Dhaliwal

Bluestone paving

October 10, 2018
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Construction, Paving
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Posted by Parveen
Bluestone - what is it? Bluestone is not a geological term but refers to different types of stone depending on which Australian state your located. In Victoria Bluestone means Basalt. Basalt is one of the most commonly occurring igneous or volcanic rocks used in construction.  It is supplied as building blocks, cobblestones and statues.  Bluestone paving comes in all shapes and sizes and until recently it was the trendiest stone…
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Street view of front entry stepper path in Burwood landscape design by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Paving in landscape design & construction

September 9, 2018
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Construction, Paving
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Posted by Parveen
Thought it may be worthwhile doing a writeup of the main questions I get asked about paving. Hawthorn East - granite Ashburton B Blackburn - bluestone Glen Waverley Ashburton A Vermont South B Brighton Caulfield Camberwell Maribyrnong Surrey Hills Paving v decking Which one should you go for?  Basically it boils down to a couple of considerations ranging from your personal preference to use of space and cost drivers.  If…
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Edible landscaping using trellis in Blackburn landscape design

Trellises

August 8, 2018
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Construction, Structures
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Posted by Parveen
Trellises or frames are probably one of the more useful structures to be considered in garden design.  Why? They add a bit of visual interest and are at times functional!  Therefore, if you're thinking of creating a space that seems like an enclosed room or a special destination where you want to be in the garden, don't hesitate to use one! With trends in landscape design shifting towards ideas of…
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Designing based on Feng Shui Principles

July 11, 2018
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Feng Shui, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Why?   Gardens are where growth energy gets created and nurture.  It is as important for your garden to attract good energy as it for your home interiors to bring you luck! Which method?   There are a couple of ways in which start the process of designing a feng shui garden.   Note, however, that the information in this article is based on the general principles and are therefore…

Balcony Gardens

June 10, 2018
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Balcony Gardens, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
With working lives becoming busier and its becoming more expensive to travel to an oasis, why not create a home oasis of your own?  A balcony garden is a perfect initiative!! Personally, its not about adding to clutter, but its about organising your space to be more of what you need in life with plant friends along the way and which can improve the air quality to boot!! There are…
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Barrel Cactus for Melbourne landscapes

Artificial plants? Are you for real?

May 10, 2018
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Plants
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Posted by Parveen
LOL.  Well that's my reaction.  I just have never liked artificial plants.  I love that modern tech has made them almost lifelike though.  But they can't give you what real plants can.  The sheer joy and satisfaction of watching your little baby grow and bloom and at the same time enliven the space that it's in!   Pros of  artificial plants   Well ... just to humour this topic ... …
Closeup of monstera in a Kuala Lumpur backyard

Monstera Madness

April 10, 2018
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Plants
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Posted by Parveen
What's so popular about it? The Monstera deliciosa plant is a non native that's getting popular again.  And for good reason.  It's simply gorgeous and easy to look after. I came across one recently on a site inspection.  Such a beauty and probably worth a lot with its propagation value and sheer size!  It definitely adds to the tropical, lush or jungle feel.  Whichever design intent appeals to you! Growth…
Corten spherical ring garden sculpture in Blackburn landscape design

Initial Consultation Meetings – What to expect

March 11, 2018
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Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
Best practice   It is our practice to organise a site meeting for the initial consultation, so that we can visualise the area we will be designing.  That's best practice. We charge for our initial consultations.   Preparation is Key!     We strongly believe in being value for money so we come prepared.  Once contacted, we send you a short questionnaire prior to the initial consultation so that you…
Garden artwork. Garden rejuvenation of a Doncaster property in Melbourne by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Small gardens – creating a big impact

February 11, 2018
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Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
With everything getting smaller these days, how do we get the most from our outdoor areas without feeling claustrophobic? Design Tips! Here are some simple tips in getting an awesome design underway for your small garden or outdoor space! Choose the right plant palette - go for the smaller dwarfs and cultivars and don`t forget to layer them and group their sizes accordingly to create the visual effect you want.  Striking…
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Front garden in Camberwell landscaped using perennials and Australian natives

Retaining walls

January 11, 2018
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Construction, Structures
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Posted by Parveen
A retaining wall using sleepers are not difficult to install and can definitely be attempted by any DIYer with a bit of time and muscle! Sleepers generally come in two types – treated pine or red gum. Although we have installed some in railway sleepers (looks amazing but it is costlier). What's the right type of wood based sleeper for you? Using treated pine sleepers for building a retaining wall is…
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Closeup of pot styling area in Bundoora garden design

What Irrigation System Is Right For You?

December 11, 2017
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Irrigation, Maintenance
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Posted by Parveen
It's a must have!   In our garden designs, an irrigation system is one of the things we insist that our clients invest in.  Parveen has a live example garden which is not irrigated on purpose. We can prove how cumbersome it gets, over time, when you don't have an irrigation system.  Even the toughest of plants will wither and perish over a prolonged period of lack of watering.  Additionally,…
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Front garden design plant cluster in Blackburn by Parveen Dhaliwal

Why a landscape designer, landscaper and not a gardener?

November 11, 2017
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Landscaping, Maintenance
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Posted by Parveen
We get asked this a lot so we've decided to clarify a few urban myths on this topic.  Specifically, how people perceive the skillset required to be a designer, landscaper (i.e. landscape contractor) or a gardener.   Landscaping and landscape design   Landscaping is a 4 year apprenticeship.  Its a commitment of 4 days a week of on-the-job training and 1 day a week at TAFE. The TAFE landscaping course…
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Budgets for your Landscape

October 11, 2017
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Budgeting, Construction, Landscape Design
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Posted by Parveen
The rare occurrence Occasionally, we meet clients who are well researched and have a reasonably good idea of what they want and how much it will all cost.  All they needed from us is to complete the picture by confirming a couple of things they were thinking of doing and a quick sketch of what the overall result will look like. In this instance we will usually offer to draw…
Helleborus flower range of colours from white to yellows, pinks, burgundy and black

Hellebores or Winter Roses

September 9, 2017
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Plants, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Hellebores or winter roses are definitely one of my favourites! The onset of some cooler weather and some cooler nights encourage hellebores to put on some new growth which foretells an exciting flowering season on the horizon!  Hellebores are definitely one of the stars of a winter garden when few other plants are in flower. The old fashioned hellebores bloom face down whilst the new varieties are more upright.  They…
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Street view of front garden in Burwood garden design by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Adding Value to your Property with Landscaping

August 31, 2017
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Landscape Design, Maintenance
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Posted by Parveen
Motivation Adding value to your property with effective landscaping is easy to achieve if you follow a few simple rules. Whether it is your home or an investment property, adding value will be a key consideration when looking to design the garden and construct it. The main elements when adding value are aesthetics, budget and low maintenance. Questions to ask yourself - aesthetics When looking at how to design or…
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Beautiful elm tree showing its yellow winter leaves in Burwood landscape design

The art of pruning

July 31, 2017
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Maintenance, Pruning
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Posted by Parveen
Well its nearly spring and if you've not been blessed with the delights of flowering buds from your fruit trees, you will be soon.  Oh imagine the bountiful fruit on my trees, you say.   But then your hopes come crashing down when you venture out and inspect the fruit trees closely. That was me this morning.  This is me now.  Feeling annoyed.  Extremely annoyed.  My horticulturist qualified gardener or so…
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Large grassed area in Burwood landscape design by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

New Instant Turf Care

June 30, 2017
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Maintenance
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Posted by Parveen
Ensure that your instant turf receives plenty of water, the turf should be moist but not wet. Depending on the season your turf may need to be watered daily. * Do not install your instant turf in shade areas.  Consider artificial lawns in those circumstances.  There are turf types that are sold as suitable to grow in the shade, however, from experience, they do not take as well as those…
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Bright flowers used around pool area in Brighton landscape design in Melbourne

Springtime plant selection noting hayfever & asthmatic symptoms

May 31, 2017
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Landscape Design, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen
Spring is nearly here!  I can't wait to see my garden awaken although I've thoroughly enjoyed the winter display thus far.  Benefits of designing a garden catering for seasoning impacts I guess!  Yes, selecting plants is so important.  Especially the right plants!  I can imagine the beautiful influx of butterflies, native bees, cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets that will visit my garden soon.  Not to mention the colourful floral display that…
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Staging for Sale

April 30, 2017
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Landscape Design, Staging for sale
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Posted by Parveen
Staging for sale Sprucing up the outdoors shouldn’t be ignored when preparing your home for potential buyers. Here are 8 key things you could do when you're staging your house for sale: De – clutter & tidy up – get rid of bits and bobs and broken down items lying around.   Get rid of dead or dying bushes, pull out the weeds and mow the lawn. Repair – minimise spend by…
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Top view of large bromeliad used in Doncaster East landscape design

Bromeliads

March 28, 2017
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Plants
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12 Comments
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Posted by Parveen
Coming from the tropics I love colour and a lush green look.  There are many that tick these boxes but I have found Bromeliads to be the most versatile.  They have varied texture from soft to hard/serrated and come on all sort of colours and fun patterns such as spots!  It has been fun learning about them over the years and implementing them in my garden designs.  I found them…
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