Burke’s Backyard recently visited the home of Pat and Sharon Soars who run the company Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd, that specialises in the production of potting mixes, mulches and other landscaping materials. The design of the waterfront house and garden has been developed with a nautical theme.
Stairways and bridges run from the waterfront up to the house connecting the house with the water. Ship’s rope is hung from the supports for the staircases and bridges creating an immediate maritime theme to the garden.
The plants through the garden are a mixture of sub-tropical and Australian native plants which adapt well to the salt-laden air and the steep site. There are lots of Bangalow palms, spotted gums (Eucalyptus maculata) and tree ferns. The garden is fairly maintenance free.
The swimming pool and barbecue area is lined with treated pine decking which has been chlorine bleached to create the look of years of exposure to the sea air. The barbecue is set in the back of an old boat. The swimming pool is cut out of the decking. As there is no coping around the pool it has the feel of a dock or wharf.
The nautical theme is carried over into the house where an old clinker boat has been converted into a bar complete with antique shipping equipment, including an old ship’s compass, rigging, cork decking and telegraph. The kitchen has a bench modelled from an old boat and decked in Australian red gum. The maritime theme complements the sea views.
Further information
The landscaping was done by Australian Native Landscapes, Lot 77 Myora Road, Terrey Hills, NSW, 2084. Phone: (02) 9450 1444.
Rope and other maritime equipment can be purchased from ship chandlers throughout Australia.
