We recently worked with Baygrove Designer Homes on their new display home in Thrumster, Port Macquarie, NSW. This is an example of how, when the concept and final design was discussed at the pre-build stage, a cohesive and pleasing outdoor space (front, back and side) can be achieved at the time of handover. Or in this case in time for the Sovereign Hills Display Village Grand Opening.
“Working with Tyson and the team at Signature Landscapes on our new Sovereign Display Home has been an absolute pleasure. From the outset, Tyson understood the overall style and feel of the display and delivered landscaping that perfectly complements the home. The front entryway, in particular, is exceptional — welcoming, striking, and creating a lasting first impression for visitors. Every element of the outdoor areas flows seamlessly with the home’s design, resulting in an inviting, cohesive space that feels complete the moment you step in. The number of compliments we receive, and clients visiting the display purely because of the impact of the entryway, is remarkable. Tyson’s creativity, attention to detail, and experience as a local landscaping expert are matched by his excellent execution and construction skills. The quality of workmanship and precision in bringing the design to life have truly elevated the display and made the entire outdoor space feel polished and complete. We would highly recommend Tyson and Signature Landscapes to anyone looking to create a thoughtful, high-quality outdoor space. ”
Baygrove Designer Homes, Port Macquarie
house, land and landscaping design package – Mid North Coast NSW
We are surprised that builders and developers often don’t discuss (in any detail) a big part of any new home build: the outdoor space (other than perhaps an alfresco area).
For new owners it’s an exciting time planning their new home in a location they want to live with their family. A place to call home. A place to entertain friends. Customising a house design with the builder so it suits their lifestyle. Choosing colours, fixtures and fittings to suit their taste and budget. Watching their home take shape as the slab is poured and building commences. Then, finally, the day they are handed over the keys to their new home.
But all too often there is a sense of disappointment. The realisation they are now faced with doing something about the outdoor space. Often just a simple lawn and a colorbond fence. How often have homeowners said “I wished we would have planned our garden and outdoor space earlier”.
The best time to plan your outdoor space is when you have decided upon the lot of land you want to buy and the type of home you want built. This is precisely the time that a consultation with an experienced landscape designer will be the most beneficial.
You can go through your ‘wish list’ to discuss how you would like your outdoor space to work and evolve with your family. What would you like to incorporate? Do you want a pool? Room for pets? Is privacy important? Do want a herb garden? An outdoor bbq or kitchen? Wheelchair access? Favourite colours? Flowers? Trees? Utility shed? Space for a caravan, boat? Outdoor lighting? Cubby house, climbing frames? Fruit trees? A herb garden? Fire pit and outdoor seating. The more you discuss the more you will realise that any outdoor area can be shaped and customised to suit you. An experienced landscape designer can listen to your wish list and advise you on any possible pitfalls or suggest things you may not have considered. Then create a design that is functional and achievable. Within your budget and timeframe.
There are so many advantages of planning your outdoor space early. Without a detailed plan you are planning to be disappointed.
cost saving – any hard landscaping can be done when the lot is being prepared for your home build (by your builder or landscaper). This is the most efficient way of incorporating hard landscaping while your lot is being prepared for your new home. Your builder may be able to add the hard landscaping to their scope of works and quote accordingly, or we can quote and work-in with your builder’s schedule.
cost saving – soil preparation and planting tube stock and saplings from your approved planting scheme can save you so much money and your garden can be growing while your home is being built. When you buy from a nursery what you are essentially buying is time – the time spent growing plants so you can enjoy immediately. Planting smaller will ensure they are happy in their new location, get sun hardened and any plants that don’t flourish can easily, and inexpensively, be replaced.
harmonious – creating an outdoor space that is in keeping with your new home, your taste and lifestyle is achievable once you have a well thought out design. A design that can incorporate space for elements you can add as your lifestyle changes.
plan now, create over time – once you have a landscape design that reflects your ‘wish list’ you are in control of how quickly you want it achieved. What you want from day one, what can wait until you are ready. Knowing what you want to achieve is a great feeling and as your outdoor space grows it just gets better, and better.
budget and your timeframe. You can do as much work as you want or are able to. Or outsource it all. You can plan to implement the design in stages or as your family grows. Or your finances allow. Remember, if you have a detailed landscape design and an itemised cost to build and plant you should be able to incorporate all the costs into any mortgage borrowings at the time of financing your house and land package. So you can enjoy your outdoor space sooner (talk to your bank or mortgage broker). Borrowing at home loan rates makes great financial sense.
an investment – a Signature Landscape adds value to any home. Real value for the owners to enjoy from the moment they move in and a fantastic return on investment which is realised if you decide to sell. Any home with stunning outdoor spaces attracts more buyers, more offers and a higher selling price.
