2020-05-01_Australian_Home_Beautiful

THE LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

“The changes a landscape designer can make outside are just as important

as the changes an architect can bring about inside,” says landscape designer

Matt Leacy, describing how a well-designed garden can “soften and complete

a building”. As their key role involves designing outdoor spaces, including

pools, alfresco areas and facades, they need to foster a connection with the

homeowners to understand their lifestyles. “Landscape designers should

take on board how the client would like to use their outdoor space and deliver

something they couldn’t think of on their own,” says Matt. When searching

for your perfect match, Matt recommends choosing a designer with “a good

track record. Meet them to make sure you gel with them as a person and are

inspired by their thoughts and ideas.” These garden gurus also handle the

nitty-gritty, such as designing to legislation, to keep a renovation running

smoothly. “There’s a lot of work that goes into facilitating all the necessary

approvals and certifications to build your project,” he explains. “Landscape

designers deal with heritage consultants, arborists, hydraulic engineers and

council officers on behalf of a client.” These outdoors experts also bring

a level of professionalism to every detail, as they understand the turf and

can provide advice on paving, planting and power and lighting requirements.

“ FIND A LANDSCAPE DESIGNER YOU CAN

TRUST, AND THEN TRUST THEM TO push

YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TO

DELIVER SOMETHING amazing” - Matt Leacy

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164 HOMEBEAUTIFUL.COM.AU I MAY 2020