Turning a Difficult Site into a Productive Garden

Unusual and difficult sites can often be a catalyst for the most creative landscape designs.

On this property an area of the garden had odd shapes, rough clay and large boulders that were left behind after the construction a new house.

Despite the challenges, our client wanted a productive garden, a place to sit in the sun and shelter from prevailing winds. Everything is incorporated in this ingenious design.

There are level areas for walking on with an easy circulation pattern, walkways to move materials and equipment around the site easily, and a sitting area to relax in after time spent in the garden.

We also made excellent use of the vertical space afforded by the retaining walls which serve as a backdrop to espaliered apples and other fruit.

A garden shed, conveniently placed but out of the way, is handy to the entire area. A greenhouse in the sunniest spot ensures plenty of warmth for growing tomatoes and other produce that can struggle in Dunedin’s difficult climate if planted outdoors. Raised beds make good use the space too, angled toward the sun yet sheltered by the house. A liberal application of attractive gravel makes the walkway area useable in all weathers.

This garden is now productive, a pleasure to work in and a frequently used outdoor living space in which to relax and enjoy some quiet times in a sunny, warm sheltered environment.