Here at Metricon, we embrace the Australian dream of integrated living, where our impeccably designed contemporary homes seamlessly extend into outdoor spaces that enhance your living experience.
Adding your personal touch to the surrounding landscape is one of the most exciting aspects of settling into a new home. Beyond the façade, landscaping takes centre stage for anyone visiting. However, the task may seem daunting – transforming what was once a construction site into beautiful surroundings that not only complement your chosen home design but also reflect your personality and meet your family's needs (whether it's just you and a cat or a bustling clan of kids).
Wondering where to start? Here are our top tips for bringing your landscaping dreams to life...
Dream big
Like any blank canvas, take a step back, dream big, and begin sketching your ideas for landscaping your new home.
Consider the primary purpose—are you aiming for a visually appealing and chilled space to unwind? If so, do you prefer a low-maintenance oasis, or do you relish pottering in the garden? Perhaps you envision a garden that complements your kitchen, featuring a vegetable patch, herb garden, and fruit trees. If you have children or pets, ample space for them to play might be a priority too. Don't forget to think about practical elements like retaining walls or extra flourishes such as water features.
Speaking of water features, are you considering taking the plunge with a pool? Perhaps more appealing in Queensland than in Victoria…
Determine what kind of pool (or spa) would suit you best. Are you envisioning a refreshing plunge for a quick cool-off, a space for your daily laps, or a larger pool where the entire family can soak up the fun together.
Whatever your needs, be sure to invest ample time in outlining a vision for your landscaping goals before you get started. That way, you’re more likely to end up creating a space you truly adore.
Is this a personal project, or one for the professionals?
Once you've got your dream landscaping ideas down, it's time to figure out how to make them happen. Check if your plans play nice with the local council rules and any requirements from your estate. Dot those Is and cross those Ts!
Many of our customers are pretty handy on the tools, and you might want to take a crack at it yourself. But bear in mind, landscaping can be a bit of a tricky task. There's no shame in getting professional tradespeople to achieve the grand designs for you with minimal fuss. Sure, that requires more money, but you can factor this into your home-building budget upfront. And with our invaluable network of contractors, we may be able to point you in the right direction.
Pave the way
Sometimes it’s the smallest details that make the biggest impact. That’s why it makes sense to put a little effort into the approach to your home. Literally.
Consider how your driveway and paving can enhance your home's design. Investing in surfaces that are not only visually appealing but also durable can leave a lasting impression on guests right from the start - plus, it minimises the maintenance required as your home ages gracefully with you.
Green fingers
Returning to the topic of garden ideas, more and more Metricon customers are leaning towards sustainable approaches. One simple way to achieve this in your landscaping design is by choosing robust native plants. These natives generally need less watering and maintenance compared to introduced species, plus they attract a variety of beautiful Australian birds and other wildlife to your home. Also, don't forget to invest in top-quality soil and implement smart drainage for a garden that thrives sustainably.
We love this guide by ABC Everyday, which provides great insights on how to kickstart the design of a stunning native garden that not only impresses onlookers but also establishes a haven for your family. Additionally, think strategically about shade – trees are excellent for this, but be mindful of their placement, ideally keeping them a good distance from your home, and consider their size both above and below ground.
For those opting for a spacious lawn for games, instead of turning to artificial grass, consider hardier, water-efficient options like zoysia or buffalo grass. If expansive green spaces are less of a priority, think about creating paved outdoor entertaining zones. And don't forget to define your lawn edges with bricks, timber, concrete, or stone boundaries for a polished look.
There’s no rush!
Once you've sorted out what you want and navigated the paperwork, keep in mind that landscaping doesn't have to be a rush job. Your cherished new home took months to build, so refining its surroundings can be a gradual process.
Take a look at your plan and consider breaking down your dream landscaping into specific zones, especially if you're working within a budget. Prioritise the elements that matter most to you and your crew. Feel free to adjust your ideas as you go along, especially if you're tackling the project on your own.
Remember the timeless advice: Rome wasn't built in a day. Take breaks when you need them, and you'll appreciate the finished landscaping even more when it all comes together.
Has your inner green thumb been awakened? Here's Charlie Albone’s guide to planting and our best tips for budgeting for your outdoor space.
