Philip Cox is a world renowned architect, known for large scale building projects like the former Sydney Football Stadium, Star Casino in Sydney and The Helix bridge in Singapore. But Graham’s conducting this walk around so it’s the garden we’re interested in. Instead of reimagining buildings, here Philip has reimagined the garden. Philip has created different zones called ‘garden rooms’ highlighting various Australian climate ecosystems like rainforest, woodland and dry area. There’s also dozens of strategically placed sculptures bought from local artists, an art studio, ponds and a fresco pavilion.
WATCH: Join Graham on a journey through Thubbul
Forget those memories of the Australian bush being harsh and unforgiving – a bush garden can be a magical place. With plants that fit in naturally with the environment, you can create outdoor garden rooms that can be used for eating and entertaining or as places of retreat for reading and thinking. When you need to build a small structure – a potting shed, a little studio – make the trees part of it. And such is the sculptural nature of so many native plants, real art becomes a natural fit in this landscape. Here’s how to make the bush your own.
1. Let the light dance
A bit of manicuring doesn’t go astray in a bush garden. The important thing is to retain all of those elements which make the bush so magical.
2. Art imitates life
This striking stand of stringybarks is made of steel but is a natural fit in a bush garden.
3. Take the edge off
Let nature have its way and include low-growing plants in pathways while allowing the edges to remain undefined. This sort of design cleverly saves you time and will add another dimension to your daily strolls.
4. Water always works
Draining swamps was popular in the past, but you can exploit the natural presence of water by transforming a swap into a pond. The wildlife will love it too!
5. Form plus function
Think about how something as basic as a woodpile can become a striking landscape feature.
6. Make a tree house
Don’t worry too much if the bush gets in the way of your building plans – incorporate its fabulous features in your design instead!
7. Pick-up sticks
Wave out of Water is one of the many sculptures featured around the garden. The composition of fallen sticks links the bush with the nearby beach.
8. Earthy tones
Gums, banksias and native grasses sit perfectly naturally together as does the oversized cauldron because of its rich brown colour.
9. Home among the gum trees
Garden art and sculpture are enjoying a renaissance, and the key to avoiding a kitschy look is to include pieces that reflect the environment in which they sit.
Now get the look in your own garden with BHG’s garden art
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Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
