Project Description:

The Whimsical Barn positions itself in contrast to many of the neighbouring gardens in Vaucluse as a uniquely wild, endemic and robust landscape. Guided by a rewilding strategy centred on native grasses, low shrubs and a relaxed coastal palette. Permeable paving and the gentle grading of a planted swale support this system, allowing water to move naturally through the site and encouraging resilient plant communities to establish. Together, these elements soften the built form and create a seamless transition between the house and the surrounding hillside.

Sandstone boulders, salvaged and stockpiled during excavation, have been carefully reintroduced as structural and aesthetic anchors throughout the garden. They define key thresholds, frame views toward the ocean, and sit in dialogue with the mature Lophostemon confertus preserved as a defining feature of the frontage. This interplay between geology, vegetation and architecture establishes a grounded, site-responsive framework that the planting now weaves through with increasing density and character.

Through working with the natural undulating site, a continuous planted swale connects the series of gardens; from upper terrace, transition garden to backyard. The use of predominately native grass plantings such as Lomandra 'tanika' and Grevillea sericae accompanied with moments of exotic perennials such as Salvia leucanthea.