Landscape design by Ian Barker, Ian Barker Gardens
In Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, the Blairgowrie Hideaway garden, designed by Ian Barker Gardens, captures the spirit of its surrounding coastal landscape while also providing a private and beautiful sanctuary for the property owners.
The Brief
The homeowners of this property envisioned a secluded garden space rather than a typical beachfront view, favouring privacy and a design that merged with the area’s coastal environment. The garden needed to feel like an extension of the home’s architectural beauty — a space for relaxation and entertainment, fitting for a family with teenage children.
With native plants and diverse textures in mind, the plan was to build a garden that would feel both grounded in the natural landscape and enhanced by it. Native trees, such as Melaleuca lanceolata (Moonah) were a part of the existing garden and were to be retained in the redesign.
The Transformation
The project began with a focus on local elements, incorporating textures and materials that matched the home’s architectural palette. The design integrated timber, limestone and polished concrete to echo the house’s exterior features.
To navigate the property’s natural slope, the design incorporated a series of gradual steps, leading to various seating areas for both private relaxation and gatherings. To soften the structural elements around the pool, Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston ivy) was planted along the concrete wall, introducing greenery and a contrast to the hardscapes.
The plant selection highlights native species, such as Alyxia buxifolia (Sea box) and Corymbia citriodora ‘Scentuous’ (Lemon-scented gum), with Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender-cotton) adding a pop of bright yellow against the hardscape. Nyssa sylvatica (black tupelo) trees bring seasonal colour, while Dichondra repens (Kidney weed) fills spaces between bluestone steppers, creating a soft, green carpet that unifies the garden.
For the plant-loving homeowners, this design offers a native-rich retreat that captures the coastal spirit.
The Result
The completed Blairgowrie Hideaway showcases a balanced blend of architecture and nature. The garden is thriving with an array of sought after native plants on display. The space is an organic extension of the landscape, attuned to its coastal location.
This thoughtfully designed retreat embodies a balance of beauty, seclusion and coastal charm.
Key Plant List:
- Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston ivy)
- Alyxia buxifolia (Sea box)
- Corymbia citriodora ‘Scentuous’ (Lemon-scented gum)
- Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender-cotton)
- Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Nana’ (Dwarf Lavender-cotton)
- Nyssa sylvatica (Black tupelo)
- Dichondra repens (Kidney weed)
- Melaleuca lanceolata (Moonah)
- Acacia longifolia var. sophorae (Coastal Wattle)
- Myoporum parvifolium (Creeping Boobialla)
Landscape design by Ian Barker Gardens
Photography by Sharyn Cairns
Key collaborators for this project include Powell and Glenn, Watts Studio, Belair Builders & Peninsula Stonemasons
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