Bayon Gardens

The Founder

Bayon Gardens was founded in 2011 by Sean Dowling. Being exposed to the world of hospitality as a chef in his younger years, Sean learned a strong work ethic, attention to detail, the importance of customer service, and how to establish tight and tidy systems for the team to soar. At a turning point, Sean decided to take a big career change, searching for a better lifestyle and a trade he loved. Being a lifestyle advocate with a natural creative flair, he was drawn to landscaping. He started from the ground up with building fundamentals, working through industry qualifications, achieving the experience and knowledge to pass the strict examinations of the building commission for registration, and continued to study for his qualification in landscape design, enhancing his natural creative flair.

Sean worked for many years with some of the best landscape design & construction teams, where he made a network of established and reputable designers, contractors, and tradesmen. Sean is a registered building practitioner and a member of Landscaping Victoria and the Australian Institute of Landscape Designers & Managers. Believing in continuous education and a progressive world, he continues to study in specialised areas of design.

Inspired to create a reputable, leading-edge landscape design & construction business with tightly run systems and a strong focus on customer service and satisfaction, Sean had a clear vision with adequate planning when founding the company. He has a passion for using natural elements in his designs, hence the influence of the monument ‘Bayon’.

Sean and his wife travelled to Cambodia in 2010 where they came across the Bayon within ‘Angkor Wat’. This ancient wonder which has lasted for centuries was overgrown by the jungle, it showed hardiness and beauty through natural elements and craftsmanship. It was clear that the following year when the business was established, the ‘Bayon’ would be a strong influence on the workmanship standard. Creating natural beauty that will last the distance of time, and therefore generating the business name ‘Bayon Gardens where nature meets stone’.

Since opening in 2011, Bayon has had much success in the media, being published in boutique landscape design magazines and winning multiple awards through different online platforms and industry associations. Sean has built gardens all over Melbourne and the burning passion for design with ethical and sustainable operations is only getting stronger. Keeping the core values of the company shining through, the Bayon team volunteered their services in Borneo. Contributing to replanting and maintaining ex-logging and palm oil sites, vital work for the future of the animals in the Borneo jungle, including the Orang-utan. Hear more about our journey.

The Crew

Behind every one of our unique creations is our team of dedicated and hardworking staff. Without our crew, visions would only remain visions.

All of our construction crew are qualified landscapers or undertaking a landscape construction apprenticeship. Over in the design studio, we have our creative team all qualified in design, working together to ensure the fine details of our designs are portrayed on our plans, ready for the vision to come to life. It’s all in the details! And that is why our back end is covered by our admin guru! All things admin, including the important necessities of contracts, variations, insurances, finances, and day-to-day communication is clear and prompt. And let's not forget our 4 legged friends, retired from excavating on site now but continues his bin inspections and crew appreciation from the office.

Each and every crew member work together to continue their training always striving for growth and development. The core of our company culture promotes integrity and honesty to ensure the only tradesmen we bring onto your property are one of us, through and through! If you are part of our crew, you are part of our family.

Our crew simply love what they do, which means our systems and processes are a breeze for you. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey of your project from start to end.

If you are interested in joining the Bayon crew, please send us an email.

Why we do what we do

Life in the city has been rapidly changing. Downsizing of land, longer working hours, more commuting, changes that impact our life a great deal and not necessarily for the better! This represents part of the motivation at the core of our business vision.

Our purpose is to enhance people’s lifestyles again by creating spaces to unwind and enjoy life. Each design is uniquely created to suit the client’s lifestyle requirements and to add value to their lives. Our designs incorporate luxury, to entice spending more time outdoors relaxing and enjoying the abundance that has been worked hard for, promoting connection and balance. Strategically using nature and its’ elements to provide an environment that fills all the 5 senses, the garden sanctuary serves as an antidote to our busy lives.

Imagine having a backyard that requires low maintenance, looks like a piece of artwork out your kitchen window, has the functionality to serve all of your family and guests, is inviting to use through all of Melbourne’s seasons, and instantly transports you to a relaxed and uplifted state.

How we do it

Quality, not quantity. We are strategically a boutique company. Our focus is on delivering high-quality designs and finishes, so therefore we are very selective of the number of projects we take on.

Continuous learning. With our ever-evolving world and environment, we believe it is vital to stay up to date with the latest research on environmental factors to ensure the materials used serve appropriately. To continue the study of sustainable building practices and work within current regulations and trends.

Passion. We LOVE what we do.
“Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work” Aristotle

Innovation. Leading the industry through independent thinking, experience & study, embracing world & environmental change, and life inquiry.

Our Process

Choosing Bayon Gardens to design your outdoor space in Melbourne or the Mornington Peninsula will be an enjoyable process that meets your desired outcome. Catering for all sizes and budgets, we have two options, which are generally based on the size and complexity of the design. Our creative director Sean Dowling will work with you to create a unique design tailored to your lifestyle and budget. We believe our process is unique and packed with good information and will be explained in-depth in your consultation.

We apply our extensive knowledge of space theory and design principles to individualise the design process and are dedicated to making this process as simple as possible with no hidden costs. Our landscape design process is a professional and well-refined experience that is clear and enjoyable. At your initial consultation, we will discuss your thoughts and ideas, share our ideas and explain the process for your design and build. Together, we can determine whether Bayon Gardens is suitable for your visions… if your visions can become our visions.

Our Plans

Creatively and efficiently put together, our landscape conceptual plan is the key ingredient for larger projects to come to life seamlessly and accurately. With a range of different contractors being used like pool builders, carpenters, etc. a plan needs to accommodate accordingly so everyone can work together for the same end result.

With a strong background in landscape construction, our plans are developed to be easily interpreted by tradesmen onsite, without under or over-detailing. And to ensure our clients are able to envisage their design before building, 3D images are provided.  Our detailed conceptual plan includes scaled drawings, planting schedule, lighting plan, elevations, and a material palette. If a permit is required for the build, we have an additional option of supplying the required engineer plans and surveying to simplify the council application for you. Our plans are clear, with no hidden costs or upsells.

If your project is smaller or not complex in nature, you may not necessarily need to invest in a detailed conceptual plan. We have a more suitable option when this occurs so you are not forking out unnecessary funds that would be better spent on the build for an immaculate finish. This can be further discussed in your initial consultation if applicable to your outdoor space.

Your Part

Initially collect your thoughts and put them on paper for the designer. Create a list of features you must have, are considering, or anything you definitely don’t want. This list can be discussed in the initial consultation. A design brief will be developed.

During the design process, any doubts or questions you have whatsoever, communicate them right away with your designer, we can help you to process and decide based on technicalities, functionalities, and costs.

After the design is finalised, make sure you have everything you need and communicate any final questions with the designer on handover. Once the design has been developed and finalised, we will move to the construction stage.

The Build

Once your landscape has been designed, it’s time for the hard landscape construction to begin! The hard landscape includes paved areas, walls, water features, pergolas, and decking – the ‘bones’ of your landscape. If your project is going to cost more than $10,000 and includes these construction works, only a Licensed Landscaper registered with the Building Practitioners Board is legally covered to do the work. The soft landscape includes planting, lighting, lawn, and irrigation.

Effective planning is essential for a successful landscape construction project. Our in-house project manager is there to plan and manage the entire process keeping clear communication with you during the process. Our highly skilled team has a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail for the polished finish. Our team has a wealth of landscape construction experience from small courtyards to acreage retreats, allowing us to draw on our expertise to build it for you, be it large or small. When appropriate, we also draw on the expertise of our carefully selected contractors to deliver the desired outcome. Our project manager/builder is there to further guarantee that the process is seamless, making it an effortless and stress-free experience for you.

The Process

Meeting. Upon your enquiry, a meeting will be arranged to discuss your needs and to assess the site. You may be asked to send photos and your plans (if you have one) prior to the meeting for preparation.

Quote. We will provide a detailed and itemised construction quote based on site analysis and drawings.

Contract. Upon quote acceptance, we will supply all the necessary legal documents including a domestic building contract or terms of trade (depending on the value of works). All the information you need regarding the process, payments, and any additional requirements (engineering, surveying, etc.) will be discussed in-depth and your works will be scheduled.

Insurance. If your landscape construction works are over $16,000 and a building permit is required, you will be provided with the builder’s warranty insurance prior to job commencement.

Permits. Depending on the design features and location, a building permit and planning permit may be required. We can work together during this process with the surveyor and engineer if applicable. We will keep you informed about any permit requirements as we take the journey from design to construction.

Commencement. Our builder will be in contact with you again prior to commencement to prepare the schedule of works and answer any of your questions. Once the job commences, we will keep you updated on the progress and continuously communicate about the project. Once construction has begun, any additional features (e.g. artwork, sculptures, plants) can be finalised and arranged. Variations can be discussed and decided upon if necessary and clear paperwork outlining any changes will be provided to you. Numerous meetings will be arranged with you throughout the building process keeping you informed.

Completion. An exciting time when your project is coming to end, ready for you to start enjoying! A final meeting will be arranged to hand over the care of the area and take you through any necessary steps and advice to keep your new garden looking immaculate.

Feature Consultant

Plants are an important part of the landscape… where would the world be without them! Our carbon dioxide converting friends not only grace us with food and oxygen but assist in making the world prettier! You may have some particular plants or trees you would like to see featured in your garden which can be discussed in depth. Bayon Gardens has a wealth of knowledge in horticulture and can design a full planting schedule based on your likes, the environmental concerns of the area and to marry in with the hardscape design. A simple way to give your space a quick makeover.

Lighting up your life. As we spend a lot of our daylight hours at work or away from the home, it is essential to get the most out of our space once the sun has gone down. We can design a full lighting schedule for your outdoor space, enhancing the beauty and appeal of your garden and its features into the night. Strategic lighting can be a piece of art in itself, brightening up your mood.

Artwork and sculptures in the garden add design flair and create points of discussion. We have a range of suppliers that provide a large range of beautiful artwork and sculptures suitable for the outdoors. We also work closely with a talented Melbourne Street Artist for impressive wall murals.

Water features are a popular way to create instant tranquillity. Bayon Gardens design and build water features from scratch, so the feature is uniquely designed and built for your space. Being a focal point of any space, water in the garden can create a soothing ambience, having a natural stress relief effect. The perfect medicine for a modern-day busy life!

Project Management

With strength in communication and planning, Bayon Gardens has a project management service to manage all of your trades while your design is coming to life. We provide the service of project management if you have chosen a different landscape company to build our design. We are happy to offer this service so the desired outcome of the design is achieved and so the whole process is smooth for you. We believe the ‘PM’ in project management also equally stands for people management. There are all sorts of contractors working on landscapes, some of those including landscapers, carpenters, renderers, pavers, electricians, plumbers, not to mention engineers and surveyors when required! Building sites have a range of headaches that pop up over the duration of the work, our problem-solving skills and management expertise allow us to smooth out any bumps along the way and coordinate the entire process, relieving you of added stress and allowing you to get on with your life.