House and Garden Editorial

When popular plants become
colourful characters that
dominate the scene in a
small garden, you know
the owners are green thumbs; people who
seem to know intuitively how to go about
making the best of a handkerchief-size
garden. However, after moving from a large
suburban garden to a small inner-city space,
even these experienced owners were a little
nonplussed about how to make the most of
their new courtyard in front of their home
and a long path that stretched down the side.
Sensibly, they sought help.
Adelaide landscape designer Matthew
Hattam of Garden Culture provided the ‘how
and why’ of the garden, advising the owners
on what would work once the underlying
processes were understood. “The garden
evolved slowly, a step at a time. The brick
retaining walls were already there so it was a
matter of establishing a series of ‘garden rooms’
down the side,” explains Matthew. “The owners
kept in mind the advice to take your time when
you move into a new place and wait a few
months before making big changes.”
Over time they planted numbers of tube
stock that were economical to buy and
appropriate for the small site. A theme
emerged: square-shaped lavender bushes;
miniature topiary trees against the low stone
wall; and pansies, blue iris and lillypilly
standards (Syzygium australe ‘Tiny Trev’).
Two years later, the garden is now fully mature
and does require regular maintenance, but
only on an occasional basis.
“Romantic and architectural, the small
courtyard garden is easy-care. Installing
pavers in the front and along the side gives
warmth and softens the existing walls. With
sailcloth spread over the side entrance to the
fence beyond, the owners achieved a second
private outdoor area,” says Matthew.
The varying heights and shapes of the
small hedges, used for architectural effect,
give the garden an original edge. Combined
with perfectly spherical topiary trees of
differing sizes, the little courtyard garden
becomes a tribute to the classical European
traditions. It just goes to show that yes, you
can achieve perfection in miniature.
Garden Culture, SA; call (08) 8234 5945,
or visit www.gardenculture.com.au
GARDENS