We, at Raine Garden Design are absolutely thrilled to be finalists for the 2025 APL awards with not one, but three stunning garden designs in the running! Each is unique, with its own character and charm, yet all reflect the same level of thoughtfulness and creativity Raine Garden Design is known for. We look forward to the award results and the opportunity to connect with many other talented designers.
The Indoor, Outdoor Living Garden
This garden was designed with contemporary living in mind, its most captivating feature is its masterful design across three distinct levels, creating a dynamic sense of dimension and intrigue. The concept emerged from a design challenge, as the original garden sat awkwardly higher than the house, resulting in a displeasing lack of transition. We excavated the space to resolve this, crafting a seamless connection between the kitchen’s glass doors and the garden itself.
The transformation culminates in an inviting alfresco dining area, perfectly visible from the bifold doors, offering a natural extension of the home for effortless entertaining. This space is equipped with a stylish BBQ kitchen and bar area, ensuring it’s the ideal setting for gatherings. Gentle, wide, stone steps lead to the first level, where a relaxing sofa area complete with a beautifully designed pergola provides a sense of intimacy and calm.
The second level, accessible from both ground and first, features an impressive pool and sun lounge area framed by enchanting plants, casting hues of soft purples and dusky pinks. Finally, the top level offers a playful haven for children and outdoor gym, making this space not only versatile but family-friendly.
The garden’s beauty lies not only in its multi-level design but in the contrast of materials that bring texture and character to each area. Dark chocolate porcelain tiles and vertical cedar slats, crafted on-site, adorn each side of the steps, while the entire garden is equipped with everything needed to be the true heart of the home—perfect for lively entertaining or peaceful solitude.
The Modern Classic Family Garden
“This garden was a true pleasure to design, transforming from a bare, uninspiring space into a haven for outdoor entertainment, modern living, and family gatherings. Before its transformation, the garden was suffocated by dense conifers, which were removed to reveal a beautiful and expansive canvas full of potential.
Among the garden’s most spectacular features is an evening seating area positioned at the far end to capture the day’s final rays of sunlight. This inviting space is beautifully framed by a warm-toned wooden pergola and enhanced by an impressive firewall, ensuring comfort and warmth throughout the seasons. A sleek, bespoke outdoor kitchen and dining area elevate the garden’s appeal, making it the perfect setting to share the garden’s delightful charm with family and friends. The planting scheme adds to the elegance, with clusters of Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ and multi-stem trees, creating a refined and alluring atmosphere.
The Modern Country Garden
This garden was blessed with a bright, expansive space, but it required thoughtful renovation to bring its style up to date with modern living. Our aim was to preserve the stunning beauty of the surrounding countryside while seamlessly integrating contemporary features that would uplift the garden’s ambience and functionality.
The pre-existing pool area, once feeling stilted and disconnected from the home, has been transformed to transition flawlessly with the charming property. Light porcelain stone paving now surrounds the pool, beautifully complemented by drifts of pollinating herbaceous plants in soft hues of lime and purple.
A renovated breeze house provides a sheltered space for both relaxation and socializing, perfect for enjoying lazy days by the pool. At the far end, an inviting seating area encircles a firepit, ensuring the garden can be enjoyed both day and night, and throughout all seasons. To borrow elements of the countryside, a glorious wildflower meadow has been incorporated, adding a scenic, organic touch to this unique and captivating design.
