Landscape design
Bryce Coulter of Green Therapy gives his insights on the new appreciation for nature when it comes to outdoor living.
What is the latest approach to landscape and planting?
The focus has shifted toward bringing nature closer. Traditional layouts with decks and patios crowded against the house, large lawns, and narrow boundary planting are giving way to designs that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Why is this gaining in popularity?
Nature is allowed space to breathe and thrive. Generously layered planting now integrates with well-proportioned outdoor living zones, encouraging seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The wellbeing
benefits of connecting with nature are well documented, and thoughtful designs reduce maintenance while enhancing usability. And the lockdowns in recent years no doubt prompted many to rediscover the potential of their gardens.
Is there an ideal way to adopt this trend?
Absolutely! Whether you’re part of a large family on a semi-rural block or a design enthusiast in the inner city, small changes can bring nature closer. Swap concrete for natural timber or permeable stone, and choose a biodegradable weed mat over plastic. Reduce lawn size and replace it with wildlife-friendly planting. Embrace vertical gardening to turn pergolas and fences into lush greenery. Edible planters can seamlessly integrate with ornamental plants and outdoor living areas, rather than being tucked away in a corner. The options are endless.
Tell us about your latest projects.
Every project over the past two years has seen clients reducing lawn sizes, incorporating diverse planting closer to the house, and weaving it through outdoor living zones. Natural materials are prioritised, and indoor spaces now flow effortlessly into the garden.
What are your favourite insights on this trend?
In our variable climate, many days are spent enjoying nature from indoors. Thoughtful garden design frames views to the garden and showcases plantings that sway in strong winds or burst with seasonal colour. Uplighting specimen trees creates striking nightscapes, embracing the beauty of all four seasons – not just the iconic Kiwi summer.
