2019-02-01_Inside_Out

tiles, inlaid with plain blue tiles, impart Moroccan flair to the
covered area. These tiles merge with bluestone pavers on the step
to the open-air space, where the large pavers are interplanted
with kidney weed (Dichondra repens).
“I was inspired by a similar concept in Indonesia that sent
me online looking at paving patterns,” says Dru. The native
groundcover enlivens what might have been a bland, fully
paved area. This combination is a highlight for Dru. “It fills
my senses when I look at it, and I’m sure the dichondra cools
the pavers in summer,” she says.
The sandblasted bluestone pavers continue beneath the glass
fence and form the pool surround. This whole area now feels
united by materials and colours that relate to each other. Joining
the paving across from the pool is a suspended deck extending
above the sewer line – this needed careful planning, for
compliancy. The deck converts the sloping ground beneath into
a useful elevated platform. The result? A topnotch lounging area
by the pool and a favourite of Dru’s daughter and friends!
Elephant’s ear plants (Alocasia macrorrhiza) line the edge of the
deck, their large leaves forming a luxuriant, shady backdrop to the
sun loungers. Palm trees in neighbouring properties heighten the
inviting ambiance, as does the lush border planting in the pet
zone. Here, a combination of contrasting leaf textures and shapes
creates interest in an all-green composition. Mature palms were
retained, with their height masking nearby roof lines as well
as a frangipani tree. Tucked into the greenery, the frangipani’s
bare branches are hidden until summer flowers pop out, which
satisfies Dru’s penchant for greenery over flowers.
Foliage continues into the alfresco area – alpinia leaves soften
the screen wall, while Philodendron ‘Xanadu’ and Sansevieria
trifasciata ‘Moonshine’ form a low-growing combination in the
planter boxes. This results in sightlines and openness between
the areas and an uncluttered, structured look, which can be
difficult to achieve with tropical plants.
Dru is over the moon with Fiona’s achievement. “It’s turned
into a really great entertaining space,” she says. “Now I love the
garden – I’m out here all the time. It was so worth it!”^

To see more of landscape designer Fiona Ericsson’s work, visit
sticksandstonesld.com.au. Dru’s garden was installed by Custom
Creations Landscapes, cclandscapes.com.au.

GOING GREEN

Foliage can be just as attractive

as bursts of floral colour.

Philodendron

‘Xanadu’

Dichondra repens

Kidney weed

Sansevieria trifasciata

‘Moonshine’ snake plant

Alocasia macrorrhiza

Elephant’s ear

Inside Out / 133

OUT gardens