Garden Design Ideas from a Landscape Design Expert
About Aspect Landscape Design
When it comes to landscape design for backyard spaces, Aspect Landscape Design is a top choice for many. The founder, curator, and landscape designer of Aspect Landscape Design is Rebecca Palser. She is passionate about her work and wants to “improve the world one home at a time.” She says, “We create beautiful gardens and outdoor areas, sustainably” she emphasises. Her work has made Aspect Landscape Design one of the most sustainable landscape designers Sydney has to offer.
Rebecca has an MBA in marketing, alongside qualifications in landscape design, horticulture, and fine art, meaning that she brings all the necessary skills to her business. She has been passionate about the creation of Zen and Japanese gardens for decades and finds that the connection with nature brings a great sense of peace and calm, particularly to an outdoor area. It’s that sensation that she wishes to bring to her clients, and she says it’s what makes her “love gardens and restful landscapes so much.”
Rebecca has many garden design ideas that reflect her background in fine arts, and she brings enormous beauty to the spaces she works in. Combined with superb project management skills, she is able to transform outdoor spaces into stunning aesthetic pieces of art that captivate the eye and promote relaxation. If you’re looking for landscape designers Sydney, you might have come across her amazing work in landscape design. Nothing is too small for her attention; she considers everything from large-scale features and garden chairs, all the way down to the finer details such as the selection of outdoor garden plant pots displayed.
The Landscape Design Process
Aspect Landscape Design has a structured process for creating beautiful garden design ideas, bringing order and clarity to every step of the process. Rebeca deconstructs the landscape design process down into three key stages, as follows.
Planning
The planning stage of landscape design focuses on helping the client to express and hone their garden design ideas. Rebecca remarks that “Most clients have a vision, and my job is to bring that to life with them – it’s very much a collaborative process.” She sees landscaping design as a collaboration between herself and the client.
Each process involves creating a detailed brief with the client, as well as analysing the site and understanding the budget. Rebecca makes a point of arriving early so that she can “sit quietly and absorb the environment and character of the street or neighbourhood.” This allows her to create areas that feel in harmony with the rest of their surroundings.
I usually sit quietly and absorb the environment and character of the street or neighbourhood.
This step also takes into account compliance, gaining an understanding of local rules & regulations, and focuses on the sustainability side of the project. These are all aspects that are key to creating an excellent landscape design for backyard spaces as well as other smaller outdoor areas of the home.
Design
Next, designs are created using the client’s brief and information about the site. The client will have opportunities to review the designs and offer feedback, ensuring the end product is exactly what they wanted. The design will include:
- a landscape plan,
- a planting plan,
-
and detailed drawings of the construction side of the project
Again, all the garden design ideas focus on sustainability. This includes furniture, with everything from a garden chair to a flowerpot being considered. It also involves taking steps to minimise waste throughout the landscape design process, from start to finish.
Construction
Next, construction begins, retaining the focus on sustainability. Water tanks, erosion controls, and drainage are all handled in the early stages, followed by laying decks, pavers, patios, outdoor kitchens, etc. Great focus is put on choosing the right materials for the space to ensure the overall cohesiveness of the finished project
Again, all the garden design ideas focus on sustainability. This includes furniture, with everything from a garden chair to a flowerpot being considered. It also involves taking steps to minimise waste throughout the landscape design process, from start to finish.
Notable Landscape Design Projects Completed by Aspect Landscape Design
In 2023, Aspect Landscape Design completed a unique project that transformed an underutilised side garden into a stunning English cottage-inspired space. The garden area, just 2.5 meters wide, had previously gone to waste. The client’s vision for the garden was challenging, combining the charm of an English cottage garden with a preference for native Australian plants. The site’s conditions added complexity, with shady winters and exposure to sun and hot, salty westerly winds in summer, which meant curating careful plant selection and durable materials to withstand the salty sea spray.
Aspect Landscape Design drew inspiration from the client’s dwarf agapanthus with its delicate purple flowers, the design incorporated a harmonious palette of purple, white, and red blooms. Green accents, including Maiden Hair fern for shaded areas and Dichondra ground cover cascading gracefully down the retaining wall, complemented the English cottage aesthetic. A small native tree, the Cootamundra Wattle ‘Purpurea’ was chosen to provide shade while offering year-round interest with its intricate purple-grey foliage.
The hardscaping elements added both practicality and charm. Recycled hardwood sleepers were used to create a new seating area, and the existing retaining wall was raised for a cleaner, more elegant line. This adjustment also provided a deeper soil base to support the tree’s root system, ensuring stability against the strong winds off Lake Macquarie. The project also involved relocating the clothesline to a more suitable northern position, allowing for better functionality of the garden. The client contributed by reusing their favourite bench for seating, reinforcing Aspect Landscape Designs’ sustainable ethos.
Accessories were thoughtfully considered, with a suggestion to place a striking outdoor garden pot at the top of the stairs to create a focal point as the client stepped out of the house.
The completed garden has become a cherished space for the client, who now regularly enjoys the serene setting for reading and gardening. The Cootamundra Wattle has thrived, described as “flowering its little head off.” This project highlights Aspect Landscape Design’s commitment to blending the client’s vision with the site’s unique needs, resulting in a beautiful, practical, and sustainable landscape design project.
Integrating Outdoor Furniture with Landscape Design: Harmony and Sustainability
At Aspect Landscape Design, creating a cohesive relationship between landscaping and outdoor furniture is central to Rebecca’s design approach. Whether designing small gardens and outdoor spaces or large-scale landscape designs for backyard spaces, the process starts with a clear design philosophy that considers both the client’s vision and the needs of the site. The goal is always to create functional, beautiful spaces where both plants and outdoor furniture work together seamlessly.
Outdoor furniture selection plays a crucial role in maintaining harmony between the outdoor spaces design and the surrounding landscape. Teak, with its natural origin, is a favoured material for garden chairs and seating due to its natural weather-resistant properties. Recyclable resin furniture, such as the Nardi range from Remarkable Outdoor Living, offers a sustainable option without compromising style or durability. These materials ensure that seating areas are not only visually appealing but also practical for long-term use in both front garden design ideas and larger backyard spaces.
Sustainability is at the heart of every project that Rebcca works on. Aspect Landscape Design follows the “Three Rs” reuse, restore, and rehome - ensuring that existing plants, materials, and furniture are repurposed whenever possible to minimise the environmental impacts of sourcing new materials. For new purchases, Rebecca chooses high-quality, long-lasting products. Remarkable Outdoor Living’s eco-friendly teak and fully recyclable resin options align perfectly with this sustainable approach, enhancing the longevity of the furniture and minimising the environmental impact of sourcing new products.
Incorporating landscaping design techniques, such as well-placed paths, edges, and plantings, Aspect Landscape Design ensures that outdoor furniture complements the overall aesthetic and function of the space. Thoughtful furniture choices, including materials that blend with nature, help create a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Whether designing for large or small spaces, their careful selection of materials and furnishings ensures a balanced, harmonious garden that stands the test of time.
Garden Design Ideas & Tips for Creating Functional and Beautiful Garden Spaces
| Tip | How to implement |
|---|---|
| Invest in a Landscape Designer | A landscape designer brings expertise in plant selection, soil types, and site conditions to create a garden tailored to your space and needs. They understand the art and science behind landscaping, helping to maximise functionality and aesthetics. With their knowledge, you can avoid costly mistakes and achieve a design that enhances the liability of your home and its value. |
| Add Trees and Plants | Incorporating trees, especially native species, provides shade, attracts wildlife, and improves air quality. Choose plants suited to your garden’s climate and soil. For smaller spaces, consider smaller trees or shrubs that offer dappled shade without overwhelming the area. These choices will help create a comfortable and sustainable garden environment. |
| Consider Space Functionality | Think about how you want to use your garden—whether for lounging, dining, or entertaining. For example, use seating to divide a sun-filled lounge area from a shaded alfresco dining space. Taller plants or small trees can create natural shade, making dining outdoors more comfortable during hot summer days. This approach ensures that your garden is not only beautiful but also practical. |
Creating a beautiful and functional garden requires thoughtful planning, starting with a clear design vision. Aspect Landscape Design emphasises the importance of professional insight, especially when considering the space’s opportunities and constraints. By working with a landscape designer, you ensure that your garden is maximised to its full potential - whether it’s reorienting outdoor furniture to better capture views or adjusting layouts for more usability.
Garden Design Ideas Using Low Maintenance Plants
When it comes to choosing low-maintenance plants, a landscape designer can provide valuable advice tailored to your specific space. Low-maintenance plants require minimal watering, pruning, and care, and are typically resistant to pests and diseases.
These plants are often endemic to the region or native species adapted to your climate, ensuring they thrive with minimal effort. What works in one area, like Brisbane or Perth, might not be suitable for Sydney or Melbourne, which is why a landscape designer’s expertise is essential. They will help you select the best plants for your garden’s needs, allowing you to enjoy a beautiful, hassle-free outdoor space.
| Strategy | Garden design ideas and tips |
|---|---|
| Layer Plants for Depth | Create depth by using plants of varying heights. Place tall plants at the back or middle, medium-sized plants in the middle, and low-growing plants in the front. This layering technique adds dimension, making a small garden feel more expansive and dynamic. |
| Use Vertical Gardening | Maximise space by growing plants vertically on walls, fences, or trellises. This can be achieved with climbing plants or wall-mounted planters. Vertical gardening is a great solution for small spaces, but it’s important to consult with a specialist to ensure the structure can bear the weight of planters, especially when dealing with water-heavy materials. |
| Incorporate Geometry & Mirrors | Use strong lines and geometric shapes in the garden design to create a sense of structure and flow. Linear paths, symmetrical shapes, or angular edges can create visual space. Mirrors placed strategically can reflect greenery, creating the illusion of a larger area and adding light to dark corners. |
| Practice the Three R’s | Reuse, Restore, and Rehome. Consider incorporating recycled or repurposed materials like reclaimed wood, stones, or old furniture into the design. Using sustainable, eco-friendly options like Nardi not only reduces waste but also enhances the garden’s aesthetic by introducing unique textures and materials. |
Small Garden Design Ideas
For smaller gardens, maximising functionality and creating the illusion of space is key to making the most of your area. A landscape designer can help transform your small space into a functional and beautiful retreat. Here are a few strategies:
Rebecca suggests zoning and using “multi-functional furniture like benches with storage to combine seating and utility.”
To create the illusion of space, mirrors can reflect greenery, visually expanding the area, while layering plants adds depth: “Tall plants at the back, medium-height shrubs in the middle, and ground covers at the front create perspective.”
Vertical gardens are another option, though Rebecca advises, “Always check with a structural engineer since water is heavy.”
Sustainability is central to her designs, incorporating the “Three R’s”—Reuse, Restore, and Rehome—by repurposing materials and rehoming plants. Geometric design also plays a role, with “strong vertical or linear lines drawing the eye upward, making spaces feel taller and more structured.”
These strategies ensure even the smallest garden can become a practical and visually stunning space.
Staying Ahead With Landscape Design Trends
Keeping up with current trends is key for creating beautiful garden design ideas, and Aspect Landscape Design prioritises this in four key-ways!
Firstly, by attending trade shows and keeping up contacts with manufacturers. Rebecca goes to about four trade shows per year and receives key information about new products coming onto the market that might spark new landscaping design ideas. This means she can always provide the best innovations in Sydney.
Secondly, she also spends time cultivating relationships with industry experts. This gives her access to local materials and means she can source items directly. From outdoor garden plant pots to a round garden chair, having the right supplier relationships can make a huge difference to the finished landscape design.
LinkedIn and leveraging industry discussions provide further input, making sure Aspect Landscape Design is always aware of the broader industry and any trends emerging in the landscape design space, maximising their relevancy and flexibility.
Sourcing Sustainable Landscaping Materials
Sustainability is at the core of Aspect Landscape Design’s approach, and they choose their suppliers with care. By selecting premium options and high-quality products, they can maximise sustainability and reduce the need for frequent product replacements. They give preference to suppliers like Eco Outdoor, which focuses on finding eco-friendly, renewable outdoor materials. They’ll also choose local suppliers where possible, for everything from the large lounge sets to white garden plant pots.
Grillo is another trusted supplier that Rebecca frequently incorporates into her designs. Known for their outstanding quality, Grillo’s BBQs and outdoor cooking equipment are designed to withstand the harshest conditions, including resilience against sea salt spray. This exceptional durability not only ensures extended product life but also aligns with Rebecca’s commitment to sourcing sustainable, long-lasting products for her clients.
Finally, Rebecca makes use of high-end CAD (computer-aided) software called Vectorworks, which offers professional development opportunities through its “university” approach. It has courses that Rebecca often utilises to both develop time efficiencies in her design drawings and to keep her finger on the pulse of the ever-changing landscape and urban planning industry, whether it’s water conservation through sustainable landscapes or biourbanism (which helps homeowners to better understand the interconnected urban processes with their urban habitats), or how to reduce the urban heat island effect in residential homes and gardens - Rebecca is up-to-date with industry trends.
Remarkable Outdoor Living is another firm favourite and aligns well with Rebeccas ethos. Our durable, high-quality outdoor furniture and recycled teak products are made to last and thoroughly focused on sustainability. The Nardi resin furniture ranges are also fully recyclable, meaning that there is minimal environmental impact, so they’re a great option for garden chairs.
Remarkable Outdoor Living allows Aspect Landscape Design to maintain its sustainable product sourcing ethos because of the range or environmentally conscious products we stock, such as our recycled teak products and our recyclable Nardi product ranges. Rebecca says, “For furniture, I curate pieces that match the client’s style and budget, often sourcing from Remarkable Outdoor Living, Osier Belle, and others.”
How Has Partnering With Remarkable Outdoor Living Enhanced Your Landscape Design Projects?
“Remarkable Outdoor Living adds those finishing touches like icing on a chocolate cake. What I like about Remarkable Outdoor Living is the QUALITY of their products and the SUSTAINABILITY. Quality, classic, design! Quality materials makes their products long-lasting – which is good for sustainability and their very reasonable prices. There are other furniture suppliers out there with quality products, but many also come with a higher price point. I know that Remarkable Outdoor Living is environmentally friendly, stylish and durable - because I’ve researched them and compared them with many other furniture suppliers.”
Rebecca’s commitment to sustainability and quality has fostered a successful brand collaboration with Remarkable Outdoor Living. Together, they ensure garden projects are not only visually stunning but also practical and compelling. Remarkable Outdoor Living prioritizes quality in every piece, creating durable products that stand the test of time and can often be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Additionally, their dedication to affordability allows clients to design beautifully furnished gardens without exceeding their budgets, making premium outdoor living accessible to all.
Key Takeaways and Eco-Conscious Advice.
Aspect Landscape Design integrates sustainable practices by using eco-friendly materials like natural stone, recycled timber, and locally sourced plants, reducing water consumption and promoting low-maintenance, drought-tolerant species.
Suppliers such as Eco Outdoor and Artisan Stone help ensure minimal environmental impact. Rebeccas guiding principles of Reuse, Restore, and Rehome ensure that existing materials and plants are repurposed whenever possible.
To maintain vibrant outdoor spaces year-round, Aspect Landscape Design recommends choosing plants with seasonal interest, like ever-blooming natives or those with changing foliage.
In conclusion, eco-friendly garden design is not just about selecting the right plants or materials—it’s about creating a harmonious, sustainable space that functions well throughout the seasons. Aspect Landscape Design’s commitment to sustainability ensures that every project is a step towards a greener, more resilient environment, where gardens can thrive in harmony with the natural world.
Reference Sources
- https://www.homesandgardens.com/shopping/how-to-source-sustainable-furniture
- https://www.landscaper.org.uk/landscaping-guidance/the-garden-design-process
- https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/how-to-become-a-garden-designer
- https://www.remarkablefurniture.com.au/
- https://aspectlandscapedesign.com.au/
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