Reviving a Garden with European Elegance: A Canterbury Home's 25-Year Journey
The Beginning: A Young Family’s Dream
Back in the early '90s, I had the pleasure of landscaping a stunning period weatherboard home on Maling Road in Canterbury. The house belonged to a vibrant young couple raising three small children and caring for their pets. The garden we created was designed to reflect the charm and warmth of their family life, featuring ample space for kids to play and pets to roam. The essence of their Federation home was captured beautifully with lush greenery, formal hedging, and vibrant flower beds that complemented its timeless appeal.
A Journey Across Continents
Life soon took this family on an exciting journey overseas. They explored life in Greece and London, immersing themselves in the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Europe. Unfortunately, their beloved Canterbury home was rented out over the years, gradually falling into disrepair after being neglected.
Fast forward 25 years, the couple returned to Melbourne based kids and grandkids, eager to revive the home they once cherished. They reached out to me, recalling the garden we had designed together long ago, asking for a complete makeover. Their vision was clear: blend the traditional charm of their Melbourne home with the captivating beauty they had experienced in Europe.
A European Revival in Canterbury
The goal was to create a garden that seamlessly combined the structured elegance of an English garden with the relaxed, sun-soaked vibes of the Greek Isles. It was a challenging yet exciting project that allowed us to bring a touch of Europe right into their Canterbury backyard.
We began by fully renovating the property, starting with the landscape. Bluestone paved paths, terrace and pitcher retaining, married with Merbau timber decking and block paving were extensively used, along with traditional brickwork that matched the Melbourne Anglo-style. These materials provided a solid foundation, adding texture and depth to the garden while blending perfectly with the Federation architecture of the home.
Greek Influence Meets English Tradition
To capture the couple’s Greek experiences, we designed a charming gazebo complete with a traditional oven, perfect for family gatherings. String lights overhead created a warm, inviting atmosphere that comes alive in the evening. This gazebo became the heart of the garden, offering a space for cooking, dining, and relaxing together, just as they had done in their Greek home.
Surrounding the gazebo, we planted climbing vines and arbor plants that will eventually drape over the structure, adding a touch of romance and seclusion. The garden also showcases lush lawns, formal hedging, and screen planting that reflect distinctly English styles. Flower gardens filled with vibrant blooms and herbs bring colour and fragrance, while timber decking provides a warm, natural contrast to the bluestone paving.
A Garden for Generations
This garden is now a magical place where the grandchildren can play, just like their parents once did. The couple’s cherished cat, returned from Greece, and their Labradors have ample space to roam, while the grown-up children and their families enjoy a tranquil space to gather and share life's simple pleasures.
The blend of Greek and English influences has created a timeless yet contemporary garden, perfectly reflecting the couple’s life journey. This space honors the past, embraces the present, and will continue to bring joy to the family for generations to come.
This Canterbury garden is more than just a makeover—it’s a revival of memories, a celebration of life’s adventures, and a new chapter in the story of a cherished home.
Are You Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Whether you’re dreaming of a Greek-inspired oasis or a classic English garden, I am here to bring your vision to life. Let's create a space where your family can make memories that last for generations. Contact me today to get started!
Contact Information
Bryce Minett Landscaping
M: 0417 799 934
Servicing Melbourne's Inner Eastern Suburbs
Camberwell - Surrey Hills - Malvern - Balwyn - Glen Iris - Kew - Mont Albert
