b'The contemporary, Zen-like feel to the garden was achieved using a strict, dramatic Accessories such as palette of coloursblack, cream and green. The key was not to use too muchgarden seating and large white or the garden would look too stark and if there was too much black itpots were shipped in from Bali.would look morbid, says Tony. We wanted to create a calm, restful scene. A single sweep of gardenia radicans Resenegroundcover was chosen for its simpleArtefactSubtropical plants elegance as well as its sweet scent. include palms and agaves.The restrained use of colour was key to relating the garden to the dark exterior (Hackett Black stain) of the Herman Pacific Cedar house. Black was echoed in the garden using a few key accessories. Three large ebony stone pots sit on individual Reseneconcrete plinths that jut dramatically out from a sea of green grass. Stylish, blackWoodstockoutdoor couches contrast with the cream sandstone tiles in the courtyard. BlackGabion walls are made slat screens wrap around a hidden edible garden where Debbie grows a variety ofwith rocks captured in a aromatic kitchen herbs and vegetables, and a dark timber cap elegantly finisheswire mesh frame.the top of the gabion walls.Plants were chosen for their bold architectural form with a strong emphasis on foliage as opposed to flowers. The garden is a mixture of tropical plants, plantedResenein groups for maximum impact and simplicity. We had no knowledge of plants,Lemon Twistbut we knew exactly what we wanted to achieve, say Tony and Deb.Get the exterior look with Resene Waterborne John planted a single sweep of gardenia radicans as a scented groundcover. TheyWoodsman Cool Colour tinted to Hackett Black. were chosen specifically by Deb for their simple elegance as well as their sweetThe Resene Cool Colour scent that fills the air as you enter the courtyard space. The arching fronds of twofinish will minimise heat buildup.butia palms also make a strong visual statement in the lower garden.ReseneWater gently slips down the face of three terrazzo stone water features flankingSabbaticalone side of a long timber boardwalk leading to the front door. They provide aSandstone tiles create a sensory element which was very important to this garden, explains Deb. Wecreamy base.fell in love with them and wanted to use them in an innovative way somewhere in our new garden, says Tony.A small paved square courtyard is an extension of the homes living room. The easterly aspect captures the morning sun, making it an ideal space to haveResenemorning coffee. We have uninterrupted views through the house out to theKubrickwater which makes this space very relaxing to be in, says Deb. ReseneLongbushThe next exciting stage of the project is to add a swimming pool, currently going through the consent process. We hope to translate the same resort feel we have achieved at the other end of the garden. We are really looking forward to chilling out by the pool this summer, says Tony.118'