QUANTM   294 The Mall, Leura

   Courtesy of Judith and Peter 

    Judith and Peter purchased 294 The Mall after moving from the Melbourne bayside in 2016. Peter had been a scientist and they had spent time in the UK, Germany, Brisbane and the US. However, when Peter retired they started to look towards the Blue Mountains of NSW where they had family - all keen gardeners - and where they had both spent time in their youth.

   Eventually, they discovered this garden in Leura Mall. The land had originally been part of the Carinya estate which is directly behind, and this accounts for the two towering pines at the front of the property. Although the garden had been considerably landscaped, Judith and Peter decided to build a new house more suited to a mountain climate. This entailed preserving many of the beautiful plants that otherwise would have ended up under the new building. Many were placed in large bags and maintained until they were able to be replanted. Happily, they are all alive and flourishing.

   Much of the landscaping was changed either because of initial drought or later, due to incessant rain. Justin Hungerford of Dig Gardens was instrumental in developing the present garden, aided by Tom Buchanin of Bespoke Backyards and their associates.

   Over the years the owners have had the opportunity to visit many famous gardens and have tried to include some of their features into their own. The large back garden is not visible from the street but from the house it provides a very relaxing aspect. The aim was to a create a space that was attractive to sit in and watch the wonderful local birdlife. Its gentle slope, formal box hedging, tall trees and many favourite cold climate plantings support a truly tranquil and beautiful experience.